Two cadets from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) officially began their academic and military journey at the prestigious National Defense Academy (NDA) of Japan on 5 April 2025, marking another milestone in the continuing defense cooperation between the Philippines and Japan.

Cadets Dwight Humprey C. Balmes and Neil Zievart B. Pula have successfully completed a year of intensive Japanese language and cultural training and were formally received at the NDA during a ceremonial reception. Both cadets will now undergo rigorous military and academic instruction alongside their Japanese counterparts as full-fledged cadets of the JNDA.

The cadet exchange program highlights the strong and growing defense partnership between the two nations, backed by the Philippine Embassy in Japan through the Office of the Philippine Defense and Armed Forces Attaché (PhilDAFA). It reflects the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and broadening the horizons of its future military leaders.

“This achievement is not only a proud moment for the Armed Forces of the Philippines but also a testament to our shared pursuit of excellence and international camaraderie,” said LT Jesse Nestor B. Saludo PN, Chief of the PMA Public Affairs Office.

The PMA continues to offer opportunities for international training and education, equipping young Filipinos with global experiences that prepare them for their future roles as officers in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.