Two cadets from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) successfully completed their four-year degree program at the Japan National Defense Academy (JNDA) on Saturday, March 14, 2026. Cadet First Class Jhoshua Otchoc Garcia and Cadet First Class Solomon Banagyo Mangetag, both members of PMA Class of 2024, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities from JNDA.
Garcia is slated to join the Philippine Air Force, while Mangetag will be joining the Philippine Navy. Their graduation highlights the PMA's commitment to providing international education and training opportunities to its cadets.
Background on the Graduates
Cadet Garcia, 25, is a native of Baguio City. Before entering the PMA, he studied Civil Engineering at the University of Baguio. He was deployed to the JNDA in May 2020 as part of the PMA’s Foreign Pre-Commissioning Training Institution program with Japan. During his stay in Japan, Garcia received the English Proficiency Award, an award granted to cadets who scored 900 or above in the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) examination.
Cadet Mangetag, 26, hails from Guinihon, Mayoyao, Ifugao. He is the youngest of five siblings, and the son of the late Samuel Mangetag Sr. and Pacita Mangetag, a farmer. He previously studied at Saint Louis University and Ifugao State University, where he pursued BS Mechanical Engineering and BS Criminology. He was sent to JNDA in 2021. Like Garcia, Mangetag also received the TOEIC Award for scoring above 900 in the English proficiency examination. Additionally, he was awarded the Foreign Cadet Special Award for excellence in academics, conduct, and public service.
PMA's Foreign Pre-Commissioning Training Program
The Foreign Pre-Commissioning Training Institution program allows selected PMA cadets to pursue their education at foreign military academies. This initiative aims to broaden their perspectives and foster international cooperation. The program with the JNDA provides a unique opportunity for Filipino cadets to experience a different educational system and military environment.
The curriculum at JNDA is rigorous, combining academic studies with military training. Cadets are expected to excel in both areas. The successful completion of the program by Garcia and Mangetag demonstrates the quality of education provided by the PMA and the cadets' ability to adapt to international standards.
Significance of the Graduation
The graduation of Cadets Garcia and Mangetag reflects the capability of PMA cadets to meet international academic and military standards. It also underscores the importance of international military education in expanding the perspectives of future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Their achievements also strengthen defense cooperation between the Philippines and Japan.
The English Proficiency Awards earned by both cadets highlight their strong command of the English language, a crucial skill for effective communication in international settings and multinational military operations. Mangetag's Foreign Cadet Special Award further demonstrates his outstanding performance and leadership qualities.
Statements from the Graduates
Cadet Garcia dedicated his achievement to "discipline and the pursuit of excellence." Cadet Mangetag offered a message of perseverance: "Rest if you must, but don’t you quit." These statements reflect the values instilled in them during their training at the PMA and JNDA.
Impact on the Armed Forces of the Philippines
The return of Garcia and Mangetag to the Philippines will bring fresh perspectives and enhanced skills to the AFP. Their experiences at the JNDA will contribute to the development of more effective military strategies and improve interoperability with international partners. As future officers, they are expected to play key roles in the defense and security of the Philippines.
The knowledge and experiences gained by these cadets during their time in Japan are expected to benefit the AFP in various ways. Their exposure to different military doctrines, technologies, and operational procedures will broaden their understanding of modern warfare and enhance their ability to respond to emerging threats. Moreover, their participation in joint exercises and training programs with Japanese forces will foster closer ties between the two countries and improve coordination in addressing regional security challenges.
PMA's Commitment to Excellence
The Philippine Military Academy takes pride in the accomplishments of Cadets Garcia and Mangetag. The PMA reaffirmed its commitment to producing globally competent, future-ready, and values-driven officers through international education and training opportunities. The academy aims to equip its graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to serve the nation effectively in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Future Prospects
Following their graduation, Cadets Garcia and Mangetag are expected to undergo further training specific to their respective branches of service – the Philippine Air Force and the Philippine Navy. They will then be commissioned as officers and assigned to various units across the country.
Their careers in the AFP will likely involve a combination of operational duties, staff assignments, and further education and training. They will be expected to lead and mentor junior officers and enlisted personnel, contribute to the development of military policies and strategies, and participate in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
The experiences and skills gained during their time at the Japan National Defense Academy will undoubtedly serve them well throughout their military careers. They will be valuable assets to the AFP, contributing to its modernization and enhancing its ability to protect the Philippines and its people.
Photo credit: Photo from Philippine Military Academy