My PMA Cadet Years (Yearling) - Perks Of Being A Cadet

June 1996 - We again had our scheduled FTX or Field Training Exercise held in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija during the first week of the month.  Using Mt. Taklang (Taclang) Damulag and its surroundings as our training ground, and conquering every task given, especially the early dawn tactical movements and simulation attacks, finding shade and water source (we had water from surrounding creeks and used the chlorine tablets given to us), and late night patrolling and guard duties as defense from the opposing group, which if I remembered correctly, composed of second class cadets or third years.  I remember it was still rotting but not as much as that of being plebes.  Since they had the heavier load, like carrying of food and other supplies and cooking paraphernalia.  That was aside from doing most of the chores.  The price of being a plebe, though hard and rotting as hell, but it's the most unforgettable and much appreciated learning  experience in a life of a PMA cadet.

The terrains of Mt. Damulag, Fort Magsaysay

Upon our return to barracks, we immediately were engaged to drills for the Independence Day parade.  And we took these practices seriously as not only our superiors but also the nation expects us to perform the best, and we take pride of it.  And as a result, our battalions were recognized as the best among the parading participants for that same year.  But in spite of everything, the real honor was being one of those who saluted those who gave their lives just to commit the freedom of our country and in the future, be the ones that will safeguard it and keep it that way.

We always maximized our stay in Manila.  We were provided enough allowance to spend during our privileges after our drills and parades.  We went to our friends and families and invited them to dine or go and watch a movie or just simply roam around the city.  I guess there's just time to be serious as there were also times to relax and have fun around, but within the boundaries and limits provided in the rules and regulations for cadets on privilege or trip, of course.

We returned to PMA a day after the parade to prepare for the start of our academics, just like that of the other universities and colleges.  Our ATM cards were also given for our monthly allowance, just enough to take care of other necessities like toiletries and hygiene stuff.  Cadets' salaries throughout their stay were only given in full by the time they graduate or depart from the academy.  Yup, as a cadet, we had basic pay and allowances just like any other government employees back then.  If I'm not mistaken, it's just above the salary of a master sergeant but lower than a 2nd lieutenant.
 

Prepared for class...

Though a cadet's life is maybe hard, there were still a lot of advantages into it.  It's not only sacrifices and hardships, we were also well taken care of inside, the basic needs (i.e. food, clothing, shelter, education, medicines and other necessities) were all well provided.  Not to mention, a future stable and progressive military career in the armed forces.  I hope I hadn't talked you in joining PMA, or had I?... hahaha.  Just make sure you're prepared, in mind and in body, it's not all perks out there.  Yahweh bless.

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