Filipino Military Officers Bring Pride to PH in U.S. Academies

NEW YORK — Several Filipino military officers and cadets brought pride to the Philippines after earning honors and completing training in prestigious military institutions in the United States.

Three Philippine Army officers received top distinctions after completing the Public Affairs Course for International Students 010-2026 conducted by the U.S. Department of Defense at the Defense Information School in Fort George G. Meade, Maryland.

The international training program was attended by military personnel from Brazil, Italy, Jordan, Latvia, Lithuania, the Philippines, South Korea, and Taiwan.

Major Krisjuper Andreo J. Punsalan of OCC Class 42-2014 led the Filipino contingent after graduating as Rank No. 1 and receiving the Distinguished Honor Graduate award.

Major Mark Anthony G. Cardinoza of PMA Class 2013 finished Rank No. 3, while Major Gen Adrian M. Gautane of PMA Class 2015 placed Rank No. 6 among the international students who completed the course.

The program focused on strategic communication, media relations, crisis communication, and public affairs operations, preparing officers to serve as spokespersons and Public Affairs Officers for units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, two children of Philippine Military Academy Class 1994 members also graduated from prestigious military academies in the United States as part of the Class of 2026.

Second Lieutenant Renzo Almodovar of Cavite graduated from the United States Military Academy, one of the most respected military schools in the world. He is the son of Brigadier General Montano Almodovar of Laguna, a member of PMA Class 1994, also known as the “Musang” class.

Ensign Ryella Allyssa Flores of Baguio City likewise completed her studies in a prestigious U.S. naval academy. She is the daughter of Major General Ramon Flores of Ligao City, another member of the “Musang” class.

The achievements of the officers and cadets underscored the growing professionalism and international competitiveness of Filipino military personnel while reflecting the continuing defense and educational cooperation between the Philippines and the United States.