The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) presented the outstanding alumni award to outgoing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Gen. Delfin Bangit, who shared some words of wisdom to the future officers of the AFP during his visit to the academy, as part of the series of his farewell tours last Saturday.

Vice Admiral Leonardo Calderon, PMA Superintendent, presented the PMA award to Bangit during the testmonial review and incorporation day ceremony of cadets who will comprise PMA Class 2014.

Bangit received the award “for having been a deserving alumnus of the Philippine Military Academy, outstanding achievement, professionalism, exemplary leadership and dedication to public service as the Chief of Staff Armed Forces of the Philippines.”

Maj. Enrico Gil Ileto, AFP deputy spokesman, said the ceremonies started at about 10 a.m. when the cadets were presented and executed a pass-in-review to the AFP Chief. Bangit then delivered his congratulatory message to the plebes (first year cadets) for hurdling the two-month summer camp training and reaching Incorporation Day where plebes join the rest of the Corps of Cadets of the PMA.

Bangit recalled his early days in the academy. “I can clearly remember my first ‘Open House’ during my incorporation day. My mother passed right in front of me several times. Not recognizing her own son, she was in the verge of tears perhaps doubting if I was able to make it through the beast barracks.”

“When my family noticed my name posted on my door, that was the only time that they were able to see me, their ‘Boyet’ who was as dark as chocolate and as thin as a stick. I felt like crying too. But I had to be strong. I had to show my family that I was not wrong with my decision. I had to be brave for them and suppress my emotions, for I know that they get their strength from me too,” he added.