In Samar
TACLOBAN CITY-The municipality of Paranas formally recognized Ensign Jeckey Pabunan of the Philippine Navy during the regular session of the 12th Sangguniang Bayan on June 8, honoring him as the town’s first homegrown graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).
Pabunan, a member of the PMA “Talang Dangal” Class of 2026, paid a courtesy visit to local officials, where a special resolution commending his achievement was presented before the municipal council.
Led by Vice Mayor Atty. Eunice Babalcon, members of the Sangguniang Bayan welcomed the newly commissioned naval officer and highlighted the significance of his accomplishment for the municipality.
The resolution, read by Councilor Leila Mari Babalcon, recognized Pabunan’s successful completion of the PMA’s four-year cadetship program, which combines rigorous academic, military, and physical training.
Following his appearance before the legislative body, Pabunan met with Mayor Elvira Babalcon and Municipal Administrator Mae Derby Babalcon at the Municipal Mayor’s Office, where local officials extended their congratulations and expressed pride in his achievement.
According to the resolution, Pabunan’s graduation represents a historic milestone for Paranas, making him the first native of the municipality to complete the country’s premier military academy.
The commendation noted that his achievement serves as an inspiration to the town’s youth and reflects the values of discipline, perseverance, integrity, and service.
The Sangguniang Bayan also cited Pabunan for bringing honor and distinction to Paranas and for demonstrating that young people from rural communities can achieve success in national institutions through hard work and determination.
The Philippine Military Academy, based in Baguio, is the country’s premier military institution responsible for training future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Admission to the academy is highly competitive, with only a small percentage of applicants completing the four-year program and earning commissions in the military service.
For Paranas, a fourth-class municipality in Samar, Pabunan’s graduation marks a significant achievement and adds a new chapter to the town’s history. Local officials said his success underscores the potential of young Paranasanons to excel in national service and leadership roles.
The resolution honoring Pabunan, which was approved on May 25, 2026, has been incorporated into the official records of the Sangguniang Bayan, with copies furnished to the Office of the Municipal Mayor and other concerned offices.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
