Four Philippine Military Academy (PMA) cadets have been sent to India to undergo pre-commission military training—marking a milestone in the growing defense cooperation between the two countries.
In a statement on Tuesday, the PMA said its cadets will join elite Indian military institutions under a four-year program that blends academic instruction with rigorous military training.
“This initiative reflects the deepening strategic partnership between the Philippines and India, which is anchored on shared democratic values, maritime security, and regional stability,” the academy noted.
The announcement came amid President Marcos’ historic State Visit to India, where he is set to meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss their countries’ defense and economic ties on Tuesday afternoon.
Two cadets—3CL Jassan Renzo C. Mamintal and 3CL Kian Leoj O. Mago—have been enrolled at the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, Pune under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program.
Their training is set to run until May 2028.
Meanwhile, 3CL Henry B. Dumangas and 3CL Peter Jim B. Lagang are taking part in the Bachelor of Technology–AT-25 program at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, Kerala, with training scheduled through May 2029.
The deployment marks the first time PMA cadets have been sent to India, and offers them the chance to gain global military experience while immersing themselves in Indian culture.
The move also aligns with India’s Act East Policy and broader Indo-Pacific strategies focused on defense cooperation, capacity building, and technology exchange.
PMA officials said the initiative enhances interoperability between the two nations’ armed forces and strengthens a shared commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
It is part of the Philippines’ broader push to expand security cooperation engagements with like-minded partners in the region, the PMA said.
