PMA Organization, Cadet Life & Career Progression - Flashcards
These flashcards cover the essential aspects of the Philippine Military Academy including its organization, daily cadet life, academic programs, honor code, and career progression paths. Master these concepts to excel in the PMAEE examination and prepare for life as a PMA cadet.
Flashcards
What is the official mission of the Philippine Military Academy?
Answer
To instruct and train the Cadet Corps Armed Forces of the Philippines (CCAFP) in such a way that each cadet on graduation shall possess the character, broad-based education, and professional foundation necessary for a successful career in military service.
What are the three core values in PMA's motto?
Answer
Courage, Integrity, and Loyalty. These three values are internalized by cadets daily and form the foundation of their character development throughout their four years at the academy.
When was the Philippine Military Academy formally established and under what act?
Answer
The PMA was formally established in 1936 under Commonwealth Act No. 1, along with the National Defense Act. However, its predecessor, the Academia Militar de Malolos, was established in 1898 by Aguinaldo.
Explain PMA's reverse class numbering system.
Answer
PMA uses reverse numbering: 1st Class = seniors (graduating), 2nd Class = juniors, 3rd Class = sophomores, 4th Class = freshmen (plebes). This is opposite to typical college numbering where freshmen are 1st year.
What is the PMA Honor Code?
Answer
A cadet does not lie, cheat, steal, nor tolerate among us those who do. This code is enforced by an Honor Committee of fellow cadets, and violations almost always result in dismissal from the academy.
Who is the Superintendent of PMA and what is their role?
Answer
The Superintendent is a general officer (Brigadier General to Major General) who commands the entire academy. They report directly to the AFP Chief of Staff and oversee all academy operations.
What are the main responsibilities of the Commandant of Cadets?
Answer
The Commandant is the senior officer in charge of cadet discipline, training, and tactical affairs. They manage the entire cadet corps and oversee daily military training and discipline.
Describe a typical daily schedule for a PMA cadet.
Answer
0500-0530: Reveille/PT; 0600-0700: Breakfast; 0700-1200: Academic classes; 1200-1300: Lunch; 1300-1600: Academic/military classes; 1600-1800: Athletics; 1800-1900: Dinner; 1900-2230: Study period; 2230: Tattoo; 2300: Taps (lights out).
What degree programs does PMA offer?
Answer
PMA offers Bachelor of Science degrees with concentrations in: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering (computer, electronics, civil, mechanical), Information Technology, Economics, Social Sciences, and Humanities. All cadets also take military science and tactical subjects.
What happens during a cadet's Plebe Year (4th Class)?
Answer
Plebes undergo Reception Week (orientation), strict regulations (speak only when addressed, eat in 'square' formation), memorize the Plebe's Bible, heavy academic load in math/sciences/English/military subjects, and daily PT, drill, and ceremony.
What are the three service branches cadets can choose from upon graduation?
Answer
Philippine Army (Infantry, Armor, Artillery, Engineer, Signal, etc.), Philippine Navy (Surface Combat, Marine, Naval Aviation), and Philippine Air Force (Combat, Transport, Maintenance). Selection is based on class rank, preference, and AFP needs.
What rank do PMA graduates receive upon commissioning?
Answer
Army and Air Force graduates are commissioned as Second Lieutenant (2LT), while Navy graduates become Ensign (ENS). They serve a 2-year probationary period before receiving regular commission and have a mandatory active service obligation.
When did PMA become co-educational and when did the first female cadets graduate?
Answer
PMA became co-educational in 1993, admitting its first female cadets. The first class of female cadets graduated in 1997, marking a historic milestone in the academy's history.
What are the basic eligibility requirements to apply for PMA?
Answer
Must be a Filipino citizen, never married with no children, 17-22 years old, Senior High School graduate or equivalent, of good moral character, mentally and physically fit, and must pass the PMAEE.
What is the organizational structure of the Cadet Corps (CCAFP)?
Answer
The Cadet Corps is organized as a brigade of two battalions, each with three companies. Total enrollment is approximately 1,000-1,200 cadets across all four years, with cadets holding various leadership positions.
What are Tactical Officers (TacOs) and what do they do?
Answer
Tactical Officers are typically captains and majors assigned to companies who mentor and discipline cadets daily. They serve as direct supervisors and role models, providing guidance on military bearing and conduct.
What physical fitness standards must PMA cadets maintain?
Answer
Cadets must maintain standards in running (3km, 5km timed), swimming, strength exercises (push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups), combatives (boxing, judo basics), and marksmanship. Annual fitness tests determine standing.
How is discipline administered at PMA following anti-hazing reforms?
Answer
Hazing is strictly prohibited. Discipline is administered through demerits for minor infractions, restrictions for moderate offenses, walking tours for serious offenses, and suspension/dismissal for grave violations or honor code breaches.
What are the major leadership roles for 1st Class (senior) cadets?
Answer
Senior cadets hold full leadership of the cadet corps including Cadet Brigade Commander, Battalion Commanders, and Company Commanders. They also complete capstone academic projects and finalize branch selection for commissioning.
Who was the first PMA graduate to become President of the Philippines?
Answer
President Fidel V. Ramos (PMA Class of 1950) was the first PMA graduate to become President of the Philippines. He served as the 12th President from 1992 to 1998.
What is the 5-step PMA selection process?
Answer
- PMAEE (annual examination), 2. Personality test and interview, 3. Physical fitness test, 4. Medical and psychiatric evaluation, 5. Character investigation. Final appointment is made by the President of the Philippines.
Compare the progression of Army/Air Force vs Navy officer ranks after PMA graduation.
Answer
Army/Air Force: 2LT → 1LT → CPT → MAJ → LTC → COL → BG → MG → LTG → GEN. Navy: ENS → LTJG → LT → LCDR → CDR → CAPT → COMMO → RADM → VADM → ADM. Both follow similar promotion timelines based on performance and time in grade.
Diagrams
PMA Organization Structure Overview
This mind map shows the complete organizational structure of PMA, including command hierarchy, cadet corps organization, and academic programs.
PMA Selection and Admission Process
This flowchart illustrates the comprehensive 5-step selection process for PMA admission, from initial eligibility to final presidential appointment.
Four-Year PMA Cadet Progression
This timeline shows the progression of a cadet through four years at PMA, highlighting key milestones and responsibilities at each level.