All PMA cadets now required to take final exam

MANILA, Philippines — Raising its academic standards, the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has scrapped its practice of exempting top cadets from taking the final examination.

The new policy takes effect starting this academic year 2026-2027, PMA administrators said.

Lt. Cmdr. Jesse Nestor Saludo, PMA public affairs office chief, said that upper class cadets are currenty taking the test, which marks the culmination of months of classroom instruction, study and academic preparation.

In the previous years, cadets who obtained exceptional academic standing throughout the term were exempted from taking the final examination.

Saludo said the new policy provides a common culminating assessment for the Cadet Corps, allowing the PMA to further evaluate cadets’ understanding, retention and application of knowledge and competencies developed throughout their courses.

“Beyond measuring academic performance, final examinations form part of PMA’s continuing efforts to uphold rigorous academic standards and instill discipline, preparation and consistency among cadets,” Saludo said.

By improving its academic program and assessment practices, Saludo said the PMA remains committed to providing a globally competitive education that equips future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines with knowledge and professional competence required in military service.