President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday paid tribute to the families and supporters of the graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Siklab-Laya Class of 2025, recognizing their vital role in shaping the cadets’ journey of service and sacrifice.

In his speech, President Marcos acknowledged the quiet but profound contributions the families and supporters made behind the scenes—from instilling discipline and values at home to enduring long periods of absence and silence during the cadets’ rigorous training.

“If the child is strong, upright, patriotic, then of course it is because their family and loved ones are so,” President Marcos said during the graduation ceremony at Fort Del Pilar, Baguio City.

“Sigurado po ako na kayo ang unang nagsanay sa kanilang mga disiplina. Mula sa paghuhugas ng pinggan, hanggang sa pagtupi ng kumot. Kung tutuusin, siguro bago pa kayo sumabak dito sa PMA, dumaan na kayo sa mas mahigpit at mas mahirap na boot camp ni nanay at tatay sa bahay,” he added, eliciting loud cheers and applause from the audience.

President Marcos said that each award earned by the graduates is a tribute to their families’ strength and unwavering support.

“Every award and medal that we give today, there is a corresponding sacrifice from you,” the President said.

The President urged the 266 graduates to carry that love and resilience into their military careers, reminding them that they serve the nation and the people who raised and cared for them.

“Serve with dignity; serve with honor, serve with love,” the President said. | PND