PMAEE PMA Knowledge — PMA Organization, Cadet Life & Career ProgressionFlash Cards

What is the official mission of the Philippine Military Academy?

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?

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?

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.

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?

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?

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?

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.

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?

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)?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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)?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

1. 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.

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.