BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL G. BAÑAGA
BACOLOD City – Cadet 1st Class Janrey Cabanero Artus, the Negrense who topped his class in the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), is earning praises from people and officials in Negros Occidental.
Artus, a native of San Enrique town, is a member of Echo Company of the “MASALIGAN” (Mandirigmang Samahan na Lakas at Sandigan ng Bayan) Class of 2021. He will soon become an officer of the Philippine Navy.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said this is a “proud moment” for the province.
“Our warmest congratulations. Graduating from the PMA is remarkable in itself, but you (Artus) tested your limits and emerged on top of your class,” Lacson said.
Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer and wife, Negros Occidental 4th District’s Rep. Juliet Marie Ferrer, also praised Artus who hails from their district.
The Ferrers said Artus is a good example and inspiration to the young generation. Success is indeed attainable to those “who strive for it given the right focus, determination, and will,” they stressed.
They wished Artus all the best in his chosen path of serving the nation with a high sense of nationalism, patriotism, and love of country.
“As a fellow Negrense, we are proud of your academic achievements,” they added.
Provincial Board member Agustin Ernesto Bascon, committee chairman on education, also authored a resolution congratulating Artus.
Bascon said Artus’ work was a “big honor” to the province.
Artus was a college undergraduate of the University of the Philippines Visayas (Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering). He became a university scholar and graduated with honors during his high school years.
Among the awards he will receive as the PMA’s top graduating cadet are the Presidential Saber, the Philippine Navy Saber, General Antonio Luna Award, Academic Group Award, and Jusmag Award.
His international recognition will include the Australian Defense Award and Spanish Armed Forces Awards.
The PMA “MASALIGAN” Class of 2021 is composed of 138 males and 26 females.
Among them, 82 were Army Cadets, 46 Midshipmen and 36 Aero Cadets. Upon their graduation, they will be joining their respective branches as Lieutenants or Ensigns in the Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force.
The PMA’s Commencement Exercises is on May 10, 2021 at Fort General Gregorio del Pilar in Baguio City./PN
