President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday assured the graduates of a Philippine Army (PA) course that his administration is committed to providing continued support for its modernization efforts.

Marcos made the assurance during the graduation ceremony of the PA Officer Candidate Course (OCC) “Gaigmat” Class 58-2023 in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City.

“While this graduation ceremony marks the end of this chapter in your training, your journey does not end here— an even bigger challenge awaits you as you start to assume leadership roles in our Army,” he said in a keynote speech.

“Be assured, the government’s dedication to your advancement and welfare goes beyond providing modern equipment alone. We continue to prioritize retooling and retraining to arm you with intellectual fortitude, with tactical prowess, and strategic acumen to thrive in the modern battlefield,” Marcos added.

Marcos urged the graduates to serve as “guides and exemplars of excellence” among the Philippine troops, adding that they must hold firm to the core principles of honor, integrity and service that have helped shaped them to become “formidable warriors.”

Leadership, Marcos said, stems from being able to demonstrate initiative and flexibility amidst uncertainty; show resilience and tenacity under pressure; and, instill hope, courage and unity even in the most difficult of times.

“As you step into the ranks of commissioned officers of the Philippine Army, remember leadership does not emanate from titles or positions alone,” he said. “Lead by example, command with respect, [and] execute with excellence as you confront the challenges ahead.”

Marcos also enjoined the graduates to help his administration build a “better, safer, and more secure nation for all Filipinos in the years to come.”

During the graduation rites, Marcos also led the awarding of five outstanding graduates led by 2Lt. Jhun Lyndon Zamora who was awarded the Philippine Presidential Saber for Excellence.

Composed of 106 members, the OCC Class 58-2023 bears the class name “Gaigmat,” which stands for “Gabay na Iginawad ang Sarili Bilang Makabayang Tinatangi.”

The Visayan word conveys ‘vigilance and being watchful of everything at all times,’ as the Class prepares to become future leaders of the PA.

Graduating at the top of his class is Zamora from Urdaneta City, Pangasinan. He was the designated Brigade Adjutant and Program Officer of the PA Officer Candidate Corps.

The OCC is a training program designed to produce commissioned officers for the PA. It is a rigorous and comprehensive course that selects and trains individuals who aspire to become officers in the Army.

Upon completion of the training, the officer candidates will be commissioned as Second Lieutenants.

The OCC traces its beginnings to the creation of the Reserve Officer Service School in 1935 at Camp Henry T. Allen, Baguio City. (PNA)