Kaibigans and Cadets
One of the highlights of this year’s excursion in Baguio City was the tour inside the prestigious Philippine Military Academy. Being able to enter PMA was a very unforgettable experience; to walk down its hallowed halls, learn about its history and customs and traditions, and witness, front and center, the “Silent Drill” performance of the Cadets was the cherry on top of the whole activity.
What amazed me the most was the discipline and composure that the Cadets displayed in everything they did. From entertaining visitors, marching in cadence and performing their “Silent Drill”, they exhibited precision and comportment expected of them. And yes, I got to share a meal with the Cadets in Yap Hall, the Cadet Mess Hall, a once in a lifetime experience. It is not every day one gets to dine with the future leaders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. I was privileged to be able to chat with a Cadet, get to know him and his story. We were seated together with the Regimental Staff and the Council of Commanders, the counterpart of a Student Council in a civilian school. Beside me was Cadet 1st Class Thomas Sepulchre, a graduating Cadet from Pampanga. He shared with me that he was the eldest amongst 6 children, his father is a construction worker while his mother is a teacher. With the financial struggles of his family, he knew that the only way to continue his tertiary education was thru a scholarship grant. At the height of the pandemic, he applied for scholarship grants from the government and a private entity, which were all declined. He did not give up but instead he persevered and kept his hopes up. Then the gates of the Philippine Military Academy opened. He took the admission test, which he passed and after a physical and medical exam, he was called to join the PMA “TALANG DANGAL” Class of 2026. During his stay in the Academy, he was able to help his parents and siblings with the allowance he receives as a Cadet. Next year, he will graduate from the Academy and begin his new journey as a Second Lieutenant of the Philippine Army.
We had a short but meaningful conversation. As we ended lunch and part ways, we shook hands. I was inspired by his story and realized how blessed we all are to have these future leaders. The roots they came from, their drive in life and the core values instilled in them by the Academy. Surely, we are in good hands. The story of Cadet 1st Class Sepluchre is very similar to our founders’ history. They too were dreamers and achievers, who carried the Academy’s lessons and ideals in founding Diamond Finance, a company built with compassion and camaraderie. Their stories are fuel as to why Diamond Finance strives everyday to be a company that is MATATAG. MAAASAHAN. KAIBIGAN.
