SAN JOSE, Antique – Krystlenn Ivany Quemado, valedictorian of this year’s Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class “Bagsik-Diwa” (Bagong Sibol Kinabukasan Didigma Hanggang sa Wakas), did not have it easy even if she is a military officer’s daughter.
As the daughter of Antique native Colonel Nicolas Quemado Jr. of PMA Maalab Class of 1993, she always had to prove herself.
“Many people think that I grew up in a sheltered, privileged life. People do not see the other side of the coin, where I carry the burden of proving myself, that I can create my own identity through my own effort and determination,” she said.
She recalled being exposed to the realities of life at a young age whenever she visited the Mindanao camps where her father was assigned.
“It was there that I saw the adversities of life. The modest life of the nearby communities and the plight of the lowly soldiers who give up the comforts of life,” said the 22-year-old.
She used those realizations to fulfill her dreams that one day, “I, too, could bring honor to my father as the first child of a cavalier to graduate number one, not standing behind his shadow but following his life to a path of noble service”.
Her father Colonel Quemado, who hails from Sitio Pajo, Barangay Caridad, Hamtic, Antique, and is currently with the Northern Luzon command, said her daughter was a valedictorian since her grade school days.
The family knew she was capable academically but she had to prepare for the physical training.
He said her daughter, the third among four siblings, accomplished the PMA requirements while preparing for other entrance examinations for college.
“Makisama sa friends (Treat your friends well), classmates, and always follow the cadet regulation and honor system which is the foundation of an AFP officer and molds us as good citizens and model officers,” Colonel Quemado advised her.
The PMA valedictorian called on her “mistahs” (classmates) to never tire of working, even in small ways, for the betterment of the country.
Quemado also reminded the youth that they “have bigger roles to play”.
“May you find the core foundation of your purpose in life. If you have a calling, hold on to it, dream high, fight for it, and be determined and strong to overcome the challenges. Your dreams and aspiration for our country are as important as ours,” she said.
She is the seventh female cadet to top the PMA since it began accepting females in 1993. She will join the Philippine Navy. (PNA/PN)
