BY: VANESSA BUGTONG

Two cadets from the Cordillera region will be recognized at the upcoming graduation of the Philippine Military Academy Siklab-Laya Class of 2025 for their outstanding leadership and academic performance.

For 23-year-old Cadet First Class Kint Pinas from La Trinidad, Benguet, the journey has been far from easy. As the family’s breadwinner, he used to earn money by joining bands and choir competitions.

But he knew he needed to do more.

“My father is a jeepney driver, and my mother is a housewife,” Kint shared. “I realized I had to help them sooner or later. I thought joining the PMA would be the best way to do that.”

Kint admitted that adjusting to life inside the academy was tough.

“It was really different when we entered,” he said. “We had to follow a strict schedule, and our upperclassmen were strict too, they were the ones who trained us.”

Despite the challenges, Kint is among the 266 cadets graduating on May 17.

He will graduate as one of the class’s top-performing cadets and will receive the distinction of cum laude.

“I’m just proud that I was able to represent them as one of the top performers in our class,” he said.

Also receiving honors is 22-year-old Cadet First Class Tracy Anselmo Miranda from Bakakeng Central, Baguio City, who will be awarded the Athletic Saber.

“Of course, I’m proud,” said Miranda. “Even if there are only two of us from Cordillera, we were still able to represent the region.”

The achievements of Kint and Tracy serve not only as a source of pride for their families but for the entire Cordillera region, proving that with discipline, determination, and love for country, success is within reach.