Story and Photos from The Galleon

SAN NARCISO, Zambales – The Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) held the reception rites for the probationary period of PMMA Class 2027 on August 1.

The program officially began with the entrance of the probationary midshipmen, despite the heavy rain that welcomed them at the PMMA grandstand. PMMA superintendent, Commodore Joel Y. Abutal and other tactical officers attended the ceremony.

Capt. Franco T. Ladica, commandant of the Department of Midshipman Affairs, expressed his gratitude to the proud parents and relatives who supported their sons and daughters at this very moment.

He stated: “Make your loved ones your inspiration and let your mind visualize what you do for them. Always remember that you are still babies to them. Above all, keep a place in your heart for the divine as your source of strength; with Him, nothing is impossible.”

The probationary period is the final selection for the newest members of the Corps of Midshipmen. The one-month indoctrination and orientation period is meant to break down the young aspirants and mold them into future leaders of the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the ever-expanding global maritime industry.

Their journey started on November 26, 2022, when 4,608 successful examinees among the 13,223 hopeful applicants took the PMMA online examination.

After a thorough admissions screening and process, only 586 incoming probationary midshipmen started their journey on August 1 and officially began their regimented life inside the academy.

Out of these 513 incoming probationary midshipmen and 73 probationary midshipwomen, those who survive the one-month probationary period shall compose PMMA Class of 2027 after taking an oath at the end of the indoctrination period. — The Galleon, The Official Publication of the PMMA Corps of Midshipmen 