BAGUIO CITY — The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) has welcomed 367 new cadets for Class 2030, marking the first batch to undergo its enhanced Bachelor of Science in Management major in Security Studies program, which incorporates modern warfare principles and emerging defense technologies.

According to Lt. Cmdr. Jesse Nestor Saludo, head of the academy’s Office of Public Affairs, the incoming class is composed of 290 male and 77 female cadets who formally joined reception ceremonies over the weekend, signifying the start of their four-year military training.

The new curriculum, implemented in 2025 following a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., introduces micro-credential courses in areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, electronic and hybrid warfare, and unmanned systems.

The program is designed to prepare cadets for contemporary security challenges, particularly in territorial defense and evolving operational environments.

During the reception rites, Brig. Gen. Nelson Alaud, Commandant of Cadets, said the event marks the official transition of the cadets from civilian life into military training under the Cadet Corps Armed Forces of the Philippines New Cadet Battalion.

“The Reception Rites marks a life-changing milestone — it marks the official beginning of your military career. This is not merely a ceremonial event, rather, it signifies your transition from a carefree civilian life into the disciplined, demanding, and regimented life of a cadet,” Alaud said in a news release.

PMA Superintendent Vice Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia said the academy is strengthening its academic and military training programs to align with international standards and the demands of modern defense systems.

“The academy is aggressively undertaking initiatives to enhance our academic and military curriculum, elevating it to be at par with the highest international standards. They will be trained not just in the classic arts of war, but in critical and systems thinking, cybersecurity, international defense, and strategic leadership,” Valencia said.

He added that the institution aims to provide cadets with comprehensive education and training to prepare them for future roles as officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The cadets will complete the four-year program leading to a degree in management major in security studies, designed to build competencies in modern military leadership and national defense operations.