The Philippine Army welcomed 552 incoming platoon leaders during a reception dinner in Capas, Tarlac on July 2 ahead of their commissioning as officers.

The officer candidates from Officer Candidate Course “GUNDAWAY” Class 64-2026 and OCC-ROTC “TALAGILAB” Class 03-2026 are scheduled to graduate on 4 July after completing months of military training.

Addressing the future officers, Army commander Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete said leadership is defined not by rank or equipment but by competence, integrity, moral courage and fidelity to the Constitution.

“As you receive your commissions, remember that your authority is accompanied by accountability. The rank that you will wear is not simply a mark of achievement; it is a solemn covenant with the nation, a commitment to lead with courage, serve with honor, and place the mission and the welfare of your soldiers above personal interest,” Nafarrete said.

He said the Army continues to transform into a professional, agile and capable force, stressing that modern equipment and technology are only tools and that its greatest strength remains its personnel and leaders.

The reception dinner, attended by senior Army officials, is a longstanding tradition held before officer candidates formally join the Army’s commissioned ranks.