No tension seen at PMA homecoming

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City, Philippines – No tension is expected between the cavaliers and even those supposedly on opposite sides of the political fence during the annual alumni homecoming of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

Starting Friday, around 4,000 cavaliers will return to their alma mater for the event, said PMA information officer Maj. Fara Krishna Candelaria.

“For many cavaliers, this event has become their way of renewing and strengthening the sense of patriotism and idealism that the academy has imparted to them. To some it is a time to unwind and reacquaint with their mistahs or classmates,” Candelaria said.

She said there is no tension despite controversies besetting PMA graduates, particularly those from the Dimalupig Class of 1981 – which includes former Philippine National Police chief Director General Alan Purisima and PNP officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina.

Candelaria said the PMA is not worried about clashing ideologies or controversial issues during the homecoming.

“When they step into the PMA, they will be equals,” she said. “At the end of the day, they will still be classmates.”