GRADUATING class of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) was asked to remain loyal to the country and its constitution.
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong congratulated the 2020 Masidlawin Class of PMA as the premier military institution has closed this year's graduation rites on May 22 to avoid possible spread of coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
"I would just like to congratulate them; they just simply have to follow the new normal and this is now the new normal which they have to contend and deal with it. I commiserate with them because their family won't be able to join with them, sometimes things happen and they just have to accept it but it should not dampen their mood, their spirit and their dedication and at the same time their commitment to serve this country, so congratulations to our PMA graduates," Magalong said.
PMA spokesperson Captain Cheryl Tindog earlier said the closure of this year's graduation ceremony is part of Covid-19 safety measures implemented by Asia's premier military academy.
Tindog added many aspects of this year's event will be considered. Since February, PMA has been closed to the public due to the threat of the virus.
"Being a graduate of PMA in 1982, I share the feelings of the graduating Cadets. They will be missing this important occasion because it will now be done as a virtual event without the parents, without the President, without all the fanfare especially with the ceremony and it goes without saying they have to accept this with a heavy heart but they just simply have to do it," the mayor added.
Tindog earlier said the only time graduation in PMA was canceled was during World War 2.
Magalong is supposed to award this year's athletic saber to a cadet that ranked number one in sports but will have to forego with the traditional ceremony in compliance with the Covid-19 health measures.
This year's alumni homecoming celebration at PMA likewise proceeded with the event closed to the public with only the alumni association and their family members, PMA personnel and official documenters attending.
