TABUK CITY, Kalinga – As women dominated this year’s Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Bagong Sinag Class, First Class Cadet Zita Dewi Nirvana Messakaraeng from Tabuk City marks her place among PMA’s special awardees.
At 21 years old, Cadet Messakaraeng, hailing from Brgy. Bado Dangwa, receives the Humanities Plaque for achieving the highest overall rating in the humanities department.
The Humanities Plaque is bestowed upon a cadet who excels in all courses offered by the Department of Humanities, covering disciplines such as philosophy, literature, history, music, and the arts.
Messakaraeng stands among the distinguished women graduating from the esteemed military institution, with seven earning top honors, including the Top 1 rank, along with three graduating with Latin honors and three receiving special awards.
She graduates on May 18, 2024, alongside her fellow BAGONG SINAG cadets, and is poised to join the Philippine Air Force.
In an interview, Cadet Messakaraeng humbly shared her journey through the academy, attributing her achievement to her dedication and passion in the arts and humanities. She mentioned her early exposure to literature and music, influenced by her father, who was an avid reader and musician.
She also recounted the challenges she faced when she joined the academy at 16, enduring the loneliness from separation from her family and friends. Yet, this didn’t deter her from persisting and studying hard while carrying her family’s faith in her military success.
“My inspiration is the Filipino people because I truly want to become someone worthy of their trust, especially as part of the military,” Messakaraeng expressed.
As she prepares to join the Philippine Air Force, Cadet Messakaraeng aspires to undergo Military Pilot Training (MPT) and become a seasoned pilot in the 15th Strike Wing, with a vision of making significant contributions to the armed forces as a skilled aviator.
To aspiring PMA cadets, she offered her words of encouragement, saying, “PMA is always open to anyone who is willing to give selfless service to the Filipino people. It only takes a heart to dream and a mind to decide. I hope that person is you.”
Messakaraeng’s achievements add to the legacy of Tabukenos and Ykalingas who have excelled at the academy and gone on to serve as exemplary members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Congratulations, Cadet First Class Zita Dewi Nirvana Messakaraeng! Indeed, you embody the core values of a respected member of the AFP – Valor, Honor, and Integrity. By Ruth Cupang
