Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Candidates may not campaign during the Philippine Military Academy’s homecoming event Saturday (February 20) at Fort Del Pilar, according to the PMA Alumni Association (PMAAA).
It is a tradition of PMA classes to adopt politicians as honorary members. But with the nearing elections, PMAAA is issuing a resolution that bars candidates from joining the parade.
“We do not want anybody who does not belong to our group, who is not a graduate, to join us—especially politicians,” said Ret. BGen. Rosalino Alquiza, director of the PMAAA.
Alquiza reiterated the academy is non-partisan, and that there is a constitutional ban against active servicemen to participate in political activities.
CNN Philippines learned that all current presidential candidates and most vice presidential candidates are honorary members of PMA classes:
Manuel “Mar” Roxas II of the Liberal Party, Maharlika Class of 1984
Jejomar Binay of the United Nationalists Alliance, Maringal Class of 1988
Grace Poe, Sambigkis Class of 1991
Miriam Defensor-Santiago of the People’s Reform Party, Class of 1969
Rodrigo Duterte of PDP-Laban, Dimasupil Class of 1967
Among the vice presidential candidates:
Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., PMA Alumni Association
Alan Peter Cayetano, Tanglaw Diwa Class of 1992
Francis “Chiz” Escudero, Hinirang Class of 1987
Two are former military officials: Gringo Honasan is from Matatag Class of 1971 and Antonio Trillanes IV from Marilag Class of 1995.
“The cadet corps renders a parade and review in honor of us graduates,” said Alquiza. “So these non-graduates, who are adopted by classes, have no business joining us in the parade.”
There is no word yet if the candidates will attend Saturday’s event, but in case they do, they will be welcomed as guests.
However, the candidates can only stay at the grandstand with other VIPs.
