Brigadier General Leah L. Santiago PA was welcomed with formal Arrival Honors at the Philippine Military Academy's Sundial Area in Fort General Gregorio H. Del Pilar, Baguio City on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
The PMA Public Affairs Office identified BGen Santiago as both the newly promoted Commandant of Cadets and Head of the Tactics Group. She holds the distinction of being the first female PMA graduate to reach the rank of Brigadier General, adding to her earlier record as the first female Summa Cum Laude graduate of the institution.
One-Star Rank Secured on November 9
BGen Santiago secured her one-star rank on November 9, 2026, together with 12 other promoted generals. According to the PMA, the rank was donned by General Antonio G. Nafarrete PA, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
She had already assumed her duties as Commandant of Cadets on October 17, 2026, ahead of the formal promotion rites, the PMA said.
Formal Welcome at Fort Del Pilar
During the Arrival Honors ceremony at the Sundial Area, BGen Santiago was accompanied by Col. Eugene Henry Z. Cabusao PA (MNSA), Assistant Commandant of Cadets, according to photo captions released by the PMA Office of the Corps Public Affairs.
Command personnel and the Cadet Corps, Armed Forces of the Philippines, turned out to receive the new commandant. PMA Superintendent Lt. Gen. Michael G. Logico PA also formally welcomed her at the Lim Hall Lobby, the PMA said.
Her Record at the PMA
The PMA said her achievements and recognitions led her to top positions in the AFP.
The Academy stated that her achievements bring honor to both the PMA and the broader Armed Forces of the Philippines, and that her career stands as an inspiration to those who aspire to serve the Filipino people and the nation.
Press release Nr 261112-183 was authorized by LCDR Jesse Nestor B. Saludo PN, Chief of the Public Affairs Office, PMA.
Photo credit: Courtesy of OCPA, PMA
Source: Philippine Military Academy Public Affairs Office