WEEKDAY closure from the public of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) yielded positive effects for cadets.
Lieutenant Colonel Harry Ballaga, PMA Spokesperson and Information chief explained the closure was part of a study to institute tourism related reforms, which would not obstruct trainings of cadets.
“The initial implementation of the weekday closure at the Philippine Military Academy yielded positive results on the cadet training,” Ballaga said.
On January 23, PMA has been closed to the general public on weekdays keeping Saturday and Sunday as the only days free to enter the military school.
Under the study, PMA is considering the possible application of guided group tours with the necessary guides during weekends within the military facility.
With regard to new directives on the application of additional security measures following the bomb blasts in Jolo and Zamboanga provinces, the military facility follows certain protocols to ensure the safety of the cadets, officers and employees residing within the military installation.
“We have always been alert especially on terror threats. But in anticipation of the PMA alumni homecoming, we are beefing up our security in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines(AFP) and the Philippine National Police units in the area,” the Information Officer stated.
Until academy officials would have finalized the details of the ongoing study, the closure will continue. During the alumni homecoming on February 16, however, the facility will be opened to tourists since this will fall on a Saturday together with Panagbenga events happening on a weekend.
“We continue to ask for the kind understanding and patience of the public since the objective of this closure is to study possible options which may cater to the needs of our tourists, and once we have finally developed the plans, then we will be informing the public,” Ballaga added.
PMA is a 30-minute ride from the city and is considered one of the best tourist spot in Baguio City with the availability for picture taking with cadets in different uniforms and attires aside from different places within the campus that offers splendid views.