FORT GENERAL GREGORIO H. DEL PILAR, Baguio City — Cadet Second Class Edmar James U. Abedes of the Philippine Military Academy has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the second Filipino cadet to receive the prestigious Star Cadet Award at the Republic of Korea Military Academy (ROKMA). The 23-year-old cadet from Sto. Niño, Cagayan Valley received the honor on March 20, 2026, following in the footsteps of 2LT Guidson Domingo PA who earned the same distinction in 2025.
Cadet Abedes, an original member of PMA "Talang Dangal" Class of 2026 and the eldest in his family, was sent to ROKMA in 2023 under the Foreign Pre-Commissioning Training Institution (FPCTI) program. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in International Relations at the Korean military academy.
Star Cadet Award Recognition Standards
The Star Cadet Award represents one of ROKMA's highest honors, equivalent to the Philippine Military Academy's "Starman" Award. According to the academy, the distinction is conferred on cadets who demonstrate outstanding overall performance across the core areas of cadet life, including academics, military training, physical fitness, leadership, discipline, and character.
👉 Fast Charging 20000mAh Power Bank — ₱119 on Lazada — check price here
The award recognizes not only excellence but also the consistency and all-around standards expected of future military officers. Recipients must maintain superior performance across multiple demanding categories throughout their cadetship, making the achievement particularly challenging and prestigious.
Additional Physical Fitness Recognition
In addition to the Star Cadet Award, Cadet Abedes earned the Physical Fitness Test Silver Award, given to cadets who surpass the academy's standard requirements in physical fitness. The dual recognition further highlights his strong all-around performance during his time at the Korean military institution.
The physical fitness component is considered one of the most demanding aspects of military academy training, requiring sustained excellence in multiple physical disciplines and endurance challenges throughout the academic program.
Korean Philosophy Guides Training Approach
Reflecting on his recognition, Cadet Abedes shared the Korean saying that guided him throughout his training: "힘든 것 당연한거다 하지만 그 만큼 노력하면 이겨낼 수 있다," which translates to "It is natural for things to be difficult, but with enough effort, you can overcome them."
The cadet dedicated his achievement to his family, who continue to inspire him, and to God, whom he credits for making everything possible. He emphasized that the award is not an endpoint but rather "a stepping stone toward an even stronger finish."
Foreign Pre-Commissioning Training Program Background
The Foreign Pre-Commissioning Training Institution (FPCTI) program represents a strategic partnership between the Philippine Military Academy and international military institutions. The program allows select PMA cadets to complete portions of their training at foreign military academies, exposing them to different military traditions, training methodologies, and international perspectives.
Participants in the FPCTI program are chosen based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and overall cadet performance. The program aims to develop globally-minded military officers who can contribute to international military cooperation and bring diverse experiences back to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
👉 Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 8GB+256GB — ₱7,799 on Lazada — check price here
Building on Previous Filipino Success
Cadet Abedes follows the precedent set by 2LT Guidson Domingo PA, who became the first Filipino to receive the Star Cadet Award at ROKMA in 2025. The consecutive recognition of Filipino cadets demonstrates the consistent quality of PMA training and the ability of Filipino military personnel to excel in international military education environments.
The achievement also reflects the strengthening military and educational ties between the Philippines and South Korea, countries that share strategic interests in regional security and military cooperation.
Significance for Philippine Military Academy
For the Philippine Military Academy, Cadet Abedes' recognition represents another significant achievement in its growing presence in foreign service academies. The institution has increasingly emphasized international exposure and training partnerships as part of its mission to develop world-class military leaders.
PMA officials view such achievements as validation of their training standards and curriculum effectiveness. The recognition also enhances the academy's reputation in international military education circles and may open additional opportunities for future exchange programs.
Impact on Armed Forces Development
The success of Filipino cadets in international military academies contributes to the broader development of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Officers with international training experience bring valuable perspectives on modern military practices, cross-cultural communication, and international military cooperation.
Such experiences are particularly valuable as the AFP continues to modernize and strengthen its capabilities through international partnerships and cooperation agreements. The knowledge and skills gained through programs like FPCTI contribute to the overall professionalization of the Philippine military.
Recognition of Filipino Excellence Abroad
Cadet Abedes' achievement stands as a testament that young Filipinos can excel on the global stage through discipline, perseverance, and character. His success brings honor to the PMA, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Filipino people, demonstrating the capability of Filipino military personnel to compete and succeed in demanding international environments.
The recognition also serves as inspiration for current and future PMA cadets, showing that dedication to excellence and adherence to military values can lead to prestigious achievements even in foreign military institutions with different cultural and training approaches.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Philippine Military Academy
👉 Mini UPS Battery Backup for WiFi Router — ₱243 on Lazada — check price here