“May you continue to pursue your dreams… and, one day, proudly serve our nation” — Vice-Governor Odiem to 9 Kalinga youth who passed the 2026 PMA entrance exam

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — “May you continue to pursue your dreams and, one day, proudly serve our nation.”

This was the message of Kalinga Vice Governor Dave Q. Odiem to nine young iKalingas who passed the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Entrance Examination, reminding them to carry with them the support of their families and fellow Kalingas as they continue their journey toward their aspirations.

The nine iKalingas were among 958 aspiring applicants who took the PMA Entrance Examination conducted in Kalinga Province on September 5–6, 2026.

They are Ralph Raymond Cay-an Bagni, Shello Grace Dumalleg Bagsao, Gammer Aowic Bancilo, Kimwonlee Pay-ong Bun-as, Joshua Paul Alsiyang Castillo, Mico Ermitano Diaz, Troy Mason Toma-aag Malidom, Louelle Dulliyao Salida, and Philip Carl Obama Villamor.

Odiem said their achievement is something their families and fellow iKalingas can take pride in, noting that the young applicants are carrying not only their personal ambitions but also the hopes of the community that supports them.

“When you move forward, remember that you are not pursuing this dream alone. Your families, your fellow iKalingas and the people who believe in you will be there to cheer you on. May you carry that support with you as you continue your journey,” Odiem said.

He recognized the effort required to pass the entrance examination, saying the achievement marks an important step for the nine young Kalingas as they pursue their aspirations of serving the country.

“Congratulations kadagiti siam iKalinga a nakapasa iti Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Entrance Examination a naangay ditoy Kalinga Province… May you continue to pursue your dreams and, one day, proudly serve our nation. Your Kalinga family is cheering you on,” Odiem added.

The Philippine Military Academy said applicants who passed the 2026 entrance examination will still undergo succeeding stages of the selection process, including the Complete Physical Examination, Medical Assessment, and Neuropsychiatric Evaluation.

The screening phase will run from October 2026 to April 2027 for applicants seeking admission to the incoming PMA Class of 2031.

Passing the written examination is therefore an important milestone but does not yet guarantee admission to the academy. The nine applicants must still complete the succeeding requirements and pass the remaining stages of the selection process.

For Odiem, however, the achievement of the nine young Kalingas is already a moment worth recognizing.

He expressed hope that the successful applicants would continue working toward their dreams and, if they eventually enter the academy and become officers, use their training and opportunities to serve the country with honor and dedication.