More than four decades after first being invited, Filipino singer Gary Valenciano finally took the stage for cadets of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), performing his "Warrior's Heart" concert at the John Hay Convention Center in Baguio City on November 8, 2026, the Philippine Military Academy announced in a press release.
Host Parents Group and Christian Artists' Community Behind the Event
According to the PMA, the concert was jointly organized by the Baguio PMA Host Parents Association Incorporated (BPMAHPAI) and Artist in Touch — a community of Christian artists dedicated to promoting the Lordship of Jesus Christ within the Philippine entertainment industry.
Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who serves as chair of the BPMAHPAI, was present at the event alongside general and senior military officers. Program hosting duties were handled by Kata Inocencio, the PMA said.
Invitation Extended 43 Years Ago Finally Honoured
The PMA press release noted that the concert fulfilled an invitation originally extended to Valenciano 43 years prior to perform for PMA cadets. Drawing from his own personal struggles, Valenciano urged the cadets to hold firm in their faith and to draw strength from adversity. He reminded them that, behind the discipline and toughness expected of future military officers, they remain individuals who face personal trials and are deserving of encouragement and spiritual support.
Cavalier Pastor Shares Reflections on Faith and Service
Also taking the stage was Cavalier Pastor Geri Gambala of PMA Class 1995, who shared personal testimonies and reflections on faith, resilience, and the demands of military service, according to the Academy's press release. The program gave cadets a space to contemplate spiritual strength, emotional endurance, and a sense of calling as they look toward the responsibilities of military leadership, the PMA added.
PMA Superintendent Commends Valenciano's Inspiration
PMA Superintendent Lieutenant General Michael G. Logico PA expressed gratitude to Valenciano for the upliftment he brought to the Corps of Cadets. "A leader's job is to inspire. That is what you did. Thank you for being an inspiration," Logico was quoted as saying in the PMA press release.
The Academy also released photos showing Logico presenting a token of appreciation to Valenciano, while Mrs. Joy V. Logico presented a memento to the singer's wife, Mrs. Angeli Pangilinan. The cadets and Mayor Magalong likewise presented tokens of appreciation to the performer, according to the PMA.
BPMAHPAI's Role in Supporting Cadets' Well-Being
The PMA said the event highlighted the BPMAHPAI's function in giving cadets a sense of home and tending to their personal and emotional well-being during their time at the Academy. Beyond military competence and operational readiness, the PMA stated that it recognizes the value of building character, resilience, and purpose among its cadets — qualities it continues to cultivate through engagements such as "Warrior's Heart" in preparing future Armed Forces of the Philippines officers for a lifetime of national service.
Photos: PMA OCPA
Source: Philippine Military Academy