A total of 466 incoming platoon leaders have completed the Philippine Army’s Officer Pre-Deployment Course, marking another step in the military’s efforts to strengthen leadership development and operational readiness.
The graduation ceremony was held on May 11 at the Support Command headquarters in Camp Servillano Aquino in San Miguel, Tarlac.
The nearly four-month course was designed to prepare newly commissioned officers for field assignments by enhancing their operational knowledge and familiarizing them with the functions of Army operating units.
Army officials said the training forms part of the Officer Pre-Deployment Program and supports the Philippine Army’s continuing push to prioritize human capital development within the organization.
The latest batch included 324 graduates of Officer Candidate Course Class 63-2025, one foreign graduate from the Australian Defence Force Academy, and 141 newly commissioned officers under Republic Act 2334, which provides for the rotation of Reserve Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in active military service for 2026.
Representing Army chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete during the ceremony, Army Inspector General Maj. Gen. Isagani Criste urged the young officers to lead with professionalism, humility, and integrity as they begin their military careers.
“As you join your respective units, you will serve alongside soldiers who have spent years in the field and have gained valuable experience through service and sacrifice. Learn from them,” Criste said.
He encouraged the officers to listen to the experiences and lessons of seasoned soldiers to help them become more disciplined and effective leaders.
At the same time, Criste reminded the graduates that they also carry the responsibility of contributing fresh knowledge, skills, and perspectives gained from their recent training.
“Through this exchange of experience and innovation, you will help strengthen your units and contribute to the continuing professionalization of our Army,” he added.