“Many were called, few were chosen, only the best remain”
In 1996, ten thousand (10,000) hopeful candidates nationwide took the PNPA Cadet Admission Test. Of these, one thousand two hundred (1,200) passed, and only two hundred seventy one (271) made it and gave birth to the PNPA “Tanglaw-lahi” Class of 1999, inspired by their class song “Voices that Care.”
RECEPTION CEREMONY AND BREAKING PERIOD
It all began on May 1, 1997, when the class took their oath as PNPA Cadets on the hallowed grounds of Camp General Mariano N. Castaneda in Silang, Cavite. The class was received by Class 1998 in the so called “Reception Ceremony,” during which grueling physical exercises were performed in the presence of the sending loved ones and families. This ceremony also marked the beginning of the “Breaking Period,” which lasted for a three-month period reckoning from the day of the oath-taking. The “Breaking Period” involved the isolation of the class in a “Melting Pot,” a place where the new cadets were housed while transitioning from civilian to police cadet life. During this period, basic military and police drills, ceremonies, courtesy, discipline, values, and culture were introduced. The “Breaking Period” was an essential stage to test the cadets’ determination and willpower to survive and successfully complete the training before being incorporated with the upperclassmen.
INCORPORATION, ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES, AND PROJECTS
August 9, 1997 was the class “Incorporation Day.” It was the day when Class 1999 was officially accommodated in their respective company barracks. The Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta Companies comprised the First Battalion, while the Echo, Foxtrot, Golf, and Hawk Companies made up the Second Battalion. All the female cadets, however, were housed in the First Battalion.
The Class 1999, with a total of two hundred eighteen (218) survivors, was formally incorporated with their three hundred forty-three (343) upperclassmen. The incorporation served as a means of indoctrination, where courtesy, discipline, and leadership traits and styles were taught by the institution and Class 1998 through squadding and command activities. Notably, the incorporation stage prepared the class for the Recognition Rites.
This incorporation marked a significant transition, as academic activities began and laid the foundation for the cadets’ future endeavors in law enforcement and public safety. During this stage, the class engaged in various projects, including tree planting, which now provides shade and fresh air along the roads surrounding the PNPA; the development of a wedding garden, “Kalasag” Hill, a firing range, and corps publication office and studio room; procurement and setting up of reloading machine; and the construction of the giant shaku (a cadet statue), a slow driller statue, and a giant star (in collaboration with the upperclassmen and the underclassmen), which are enjoyed by visiting families and friends of the cadets.
RECOGNITION RITES
The most awaited Recognition Rites for the “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999 happened on January 10, 1998, when they received a blessed handshake from the upperclassmen. This was a significant testament to their dedication and hard work. This event served as a motivational milestone, reinforcing their commitment to the values and principles instilled during their training.
During the ceremony, the class showcased both slow drill and silent drill performances, highlighting the Academy’s emphasis on precision, discipline, and teamwork.
In 1998, following the graduation of their upperclassmen, the PNPA “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999 ascended to the status of “Upperclassmen.” They became the first class to simultaneously oversee two (2) classes of underclassmen: Classes 2000 and 2001, marking the beginning of the transition period from two (2) to four (4) years training in the Academy. Additionally, the class took the initiative to rename the Corps from Cadet Corps Philippine National Police Academy (CCPNPA) to Cadet Corps Philippine Public Safety Services (CCPPSS). This change signified the inclusion of the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology under the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
The women of the class were the first to wear skirts during their Ring Hop Ceremony held at the Manila Hotel. As the ring-wearing ceremony was conducted with dignity, pride, and respect, female cadets at this early stage distinguished themselves as women of taste and elegance by wearing long maroon skirts for this special occasion. This choice truly highlighted the significance of the ceremony and the thoughtful planning that went into it. This initiative was led by CADET MARY GRACE RIEGO MADAYAG, the Cadet in Charge of the Hop Committee, who set a beautiful tone for the event.
Other initiatives have enriched the Corps’ traditions, such as the annual Lighting Ceremony of the Giant Star, which is accompanied by a vibrant street party featuring food, drinks, and fireworks. This fosters unity and holiday cheer within the Corps, providing a welcome respite from the cadets’ regimented lives. Furthermore, the establishment of the PNPA Dance Troupe, comprised of cadets skilled in ballroom, folk, and modern dance, has promoted cultural appreciation and camaraderie. The troupe performs at special occasions alongside the Cadet Combo and also provides dance instruction to other cadets, expanding participation and skill development.
As there were many registered nurses within the class, CADET MARCELIANO ALCAIDE DESAMITO initiated the formation of the Cadet Corps Nurses Association, a vital resource that provides first aid training, medical awareness, and health-related support within the cadet corps. This ensures that cadets are prepared to handle medical emergencies both during training and in their future careers. This dedication to service extended beyond the academy walls when CADET JULIET ATMA GUMPAD and CADET MARY GRACE RIEGO MADAYAG, while on official business, encountered a family involved in a serious car accident. Their swift response was nothing short of heroic. Rushing to the aid of the injured “lola,” they provided immediate care, preventing potentially fatal blood loss and ensuring her safe transport to the nearest hospital in Sta. Rosa, Laguna. Their actions highlighted not only their exceptional skills but also their unwavering compassion and dedication to the principle of service above self.
The establishment of the Peer Counseling Group, which focuses on health, mentorship, and leadership development, is another groundbreaking initiative of the class. What truly sets this group apart is its unprecedented collaboration with the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA), marking the first-ever joint venture between these three prestigious institutions. This collaboration extends to partnerships with various schools and universities, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and experiences. This spirit of cooperation goes beyond these specific events, building upon a history of joint projects and frequent informal gatherings among officers from the different uniformed services, again, the first of its kind.
The Academy took great pride in producing such respectable and responsible men and women dedicated to public safety. The immeasurable love the “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999 holds for their alma mater is evident through their contributions. They are law enforcers whose sole purpose is to strive for excellence in their service. The class was led by CADET JACINTO RODRIGUEZ MALINAO, JR as the Regimental Commander and CADET DENNIS ARROZ MOLO as the Class President.
GRADUATION STAGE
The journey of the “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999 culminated in their graduation on April 24, 1999. A total of two hundred two (202) graduates, comprising one hundred eighty (180) males and twenty two (22) females, were joined by forty (40) senior class members (37 males and 3 females), resulting in a total of two hundred forty two (242) cadets receiving their commissions as Police, Fire, and Jail Inspectors (now known as Lieutenants in the PNP). The top ten cadets of the class were recognized for their outstanding achievements: CADET GANABAN CUMAYOG ALI, CADET MARCIAL LEY TAPAYAN FRONTERAS, CADET ANNIE GARGANZA OCHAVO, CADET RAMIL JANOYAN WAPER, CADET RODOLFO DISO CASTRO JR, CADET ALLAN BENITEZ UMIPIG, CADET JUNITO FIANYA-AO MASLANG, CADET CHRISTINE GUECO DOCTOR, CADET LEILANI TABRILLA TUBON, CADET RAINIER PENERA DIAZ, and CADET RONALD ALLAN AGLEHAM TOLOSA.
The profile of the class reveals a diverse array of academic backgrounds among these commissioned officers. They held various college degrees, including forty seven (47) Bachelor of Science degrees in Criminology, thirty four (34) in Nursing, ten (10) in Civil Engineering, nine (9) in Political Science, nine (9) in Secondary Education, and nine (9) in Commerce, along with other fields of study. Among these degree holders, twenty nine (29) are registered nurses, twelve (12) are criminologists, nine (9) are registered teachers, and there is one (1) each who is a civil engineer, electrical engineer, and nutritionist/dietitian.
Following graduation, the class made significant contributions across various public service branches: two hundred sixteen (216) Inspectors joined the Philippine National Police (PNP), eighteen (18) secured positions in the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and eight (
entered the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP). As alumni of the PNPA, they are honored with the title “Lakan,” which signifies Filipino nobility and translates to “paramount ruler.”
HONORING SACRIFICES: NATIONAL AWARDS AND INTERNATIONAL DISTINCTIVE RECOGNITIONS
As part of PNPA “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999, the members were deeply saddened and mourned the loss of three (3) classmates who passed away during the early stages of their public service careers. Two (2) of these members were killed in action during combat engagement against rebels, namely: the late POLICE INSPECTOR JESSE MAINIT BATAG, member of the First Battalion, Special Action Force while in armed encounter at General Nakar, Barangay Umiray, Quezon Province on April 20, 2000, and the late POLICE SENIOR INSPECTOR EDUARDO MADRIAL AMANDE, JR, while serving as Chief of Police, Matnog, Sorsogon, PRO 5 in 2006. Another member, the late POLICE INSPECTOR ISAURO PANIGBATAN DEL ROSARIO was tragically killed during a test mission as part of the Special Action Force combat training on October 25, 2003. They were all posthumously promoted to the next higher rank. Despite these profound losses, the remaining members of the class have continued to dedicate themselves to the safety and betterment of the community.
On the brighter note, throughout their service to the public, many members of the “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999 have received various awards for their significant accomplishments across the PNP, BFP, and BJMP.
One of the highlights occurred on September 18, 1999, just five (5) months after their graduation from the PNPA. POLICE INSPECTOR DARWIN SALAZAR MIRANDA of the Romblon Police Provincial Mobile Group and POLICE INSPECTOR JAYCEES DE SAGUN TOLENTINO of the Regional Mobile Group, both assigned to Police Regional Office 4, engaged in separate yet simultaneous armed encounters with the New People’s Army (NPA) in the islands of Mindoro and Romblon, respectively. Their courageous actions resulted in their meritorious promotions from Police Inspector to Police Senior Inspector effective February 2, 2000.
On June 19, 2002, the Police Regional Office 13, headed by Regional Director with the assistance of POLICE INSPECTOR ALLAN OLEA RAMOS, served a warrant of arrest against the alleged cult leader in Dinagat Island, Surigao del Norte. The operation resulted in an armed encounter, during which eighteen (18) members of the enemy group were killed, while others were injured or surrendered. One (1) police officer was killed, and two (2) others were wounded. In recognition of their efforts, POLICE INSPECTOR RAMOS and his team were promoted to the next higher rank on December 15, 2003.
Another distinguished member of the class, POLICE INSPECTOR CARLITO AQUINO NARAG, JR, has held key positions in various PNP units and is a highly decorated police officer. He was meritoriously promoted TWICE—from Police Inspector to Police Senior Inspector on January 16, 2004 and from Police Senior Inspector to Police Chief Inspector on March 3, 2007—for his conspicuous gallantry during his tenure as Commanding Officer of the Light Reaction Unit (33SAC, 31SAC) of the PNP Special Action Force, which operated under the then Police Anti-Crime Emergency Response, now known as the Anti-Kidnapping Group.
The “Dangal ng Bayan Award” was presented to POLICE SENIOR INSPECTOR WILLIAM SALAC GADAYAN for his extraordinary acts of public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior as an official, in accordance with the eight ( norms of conduct outlined in Republic Act No. 6713. He received this recognition for facing significant challenges as the Chief of Police of the Isabel Municipal Police Station in Basilan in 2005. This prestigious award, which honors individuals for their exceptional performance, was bestowed by the Civil Service Commission during a ceremony held at the CCP Complex in Manila on September 28, 2005.
Several members of the class were deployed to serve in United Nations (UN) mission areas, including Darfur, Sudan; South Sudan; Liberia; East Timor; Haiti; and Kosovo. They were internationally recognized for their support to host-state police forces in maintaining law and order, protecting civilians, preventing crime, and upholding human rights in conflict and post-conflict regions. Their efforts included building local police capacity, conducting patrols, investigating incidents, and addressing issues such as gender-based violence, all while adhering to the principles of impartiality and the non-use of force except in self-defense. They acted as a stabilizing force to facilitate peacebuilding efforts.
Additionally, three (3) members of the class have been recognized as recipients of the Ten Outstanding Policewomen of the Philippines (TOPWP) award for their exemplary performance in their respective fields: POLICE INSPECTOR CHRISTINE SORROSA TAN in 2002 (Intelligence Category), POLICE INSPECTOR JOY EQUIA TOMBOC in 2005 (Administrative Category), and POLICE SENIOR INSPECTOR JHOANNA PONSECA ROSALES in 2006 (Operations Category).
Furthermore, POLICE COLONEL JHOANNA PONSECA ROSALES was awarded the prestigious “Red Diploma” (красный диплом) in 2024, a distinction equivalent to Summa Cum Laude. This honor was conferred in recognition of her exceptional academic performance upon completing her Master’s degree in International Relations, with a specialization in Global Security and Development Cooperation, at the People’s Friendship University of Russia. Her studies were made possible through a scholarship program sponsored by the Russian government. Additionally, in 2022, she completed a Russian language course at the Pushkin Institute of the Russian Language in Moscow, which was a mandatory requirement for admission to universities in Russia.
Similarly, at the Women in Policing Conference 2018, which was attended by different participants from various law enforcement agencies across 12 countries, POLICE LIEUTENANT COLONEL VIMELLEE REVECHE MADRID, as one of the representatives of the Philippines representing the PNP, received the Exceptional Service Citation Medal of Distinction for her outstanding contributions to women’s policing. This recognition was awarded for her conceptualization of the program “My Police, My Teacher” (Pulis ko, Titser ko) during her stint as Chief of two (2) Regional Training Centers consecutively: Regional Training Center 6 and the defunct Negros Island Regional Training Center 18. The award was presented by the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Section of the United States Embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia, during the conference from March 6 to 9, 2018.
POLICE COLONEL FERNANDO LACSON CUNANAN, JR is a distinguished law enforcement officer recognized nationally and internationally for his contributions to environmental protection and wildlife conservation. Dubbed as the “Ironcop” of the PNP for his achievements as a multi-sport endurance athlete, he was the first PNP member to complete the Ironman 70.3 race in 2010, followed by several triathlon races. He also became the first to finish a full-distance Ironman Triathlon, which includes a 3.8 km swim, 160 km bike ride, and 42 km run, held at Hermann Memorial in Texas, USA. He subsequently founded the PNP Triathlon Team and co-founded the PNP Dragon Boat Team in 2005, which has won several local and international regattas.
A certified mountaineer and a “Pulis Farmer” is a champion of environmental endeavors. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including recognition from the Department of National Defense and the South Korean Congress in April 2022, the Ocean Heroes Award from OCEANA in July 2022, and the GAIA International Environmental Award in South Korea in February 2023. His efforts were also acknowledged by the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources on World Wildlife Day, awarded by Senator Cynthia Villar in March 2023, as well as by the UN Environmental Program at the Asia Environmental Enforcement Awards in Thailand, in November 2023, for combating illegal fishing and wildlife trafficking. In April 2024, he was honored as the Most Outstanding Wildlife Protection and Environmental Preservation Advocate and as the Most Outstanding Police Officer of the Millennium. Most recently, in August 2024, he was recognized for his innovation in the Wildlife Sentinel (WiSe) program by TRAFFIC Southeast Asia, and the U.S. Department of State Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.
At the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the Philippines won its historic first two gold medals in gymnastics, POLICE COLONEL RODOLFO DISO CASTRO, JR, a career intelligence and counterintelligence officer of the Directorate for Intelligence, represented the Philippines during the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games at the International Cooperation Center for Security and Intelligence. From July to September, around 250 intelligence officers from different countries were in France to monitor and share intelligence, ensuring the safety and security of more than 10,000 athletes.
POLICE COLONEL ALEX CABRERA DANIEL, the Provincial Director of the Sorsogon Police Provincial Office, received the “Gawad Pilipino Lingkod Bayan” Award 2024 for his exemplary dedication to public safety and community development. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding public servants who show unwavering commitment to the Filipino people despite challenges. POLICE COLONEL DANIEL’s effective leadership, integrity, and community policing initiatives have significantly impacted Sorsogon. The award was presented by Dr. Danilo Mangahas, Chairman and Founder of Gawad Filipino on November 10, 2024, at the AFP Commissioned Officers Clubhouse in Quezon City. POLICE COLONEL DANIEL continues to inspire his peers and the community to collaborate for a safer, more progressive Philippines.
In the history of the “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999, a significant milestone was achieved with the designation of FIRE SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT CHRISTINE DOCTOR CULA as a pioneering female officer within the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP). She broke new ground and played an important role as the first female Provincial Fire Marshal of Northern Samar (Region in 2001; the first female Municipal Fire Marshal of Catarman, Northern Samar (Region in 2002; the first female Provincial Fire Marshal of La Union (Region 1) in 2018, during which her leadership earned the office the title of Best Provincial Office for CY 2018; the first female City Fire Marshal of Mandaluyong City, marking a historic milestone as the first female City Fire Marshal of the BFP National Capital Region (NCR) in 2019; and the first female District Fire Marshal of Manila (NCR) in 2022, where her leadership led to the office being recognized as the Best Performing District Office for CY 2023.
On October 7, 2024, POLICE COLONEL MARY GRACE RIEGO MADAYAG, Chief of Police (COP) at the Mandaluyong City Police Station, was honored as one of the Top 30 Finalists in the prestigious Women in Security ASEAN Region Awards. The ceremony, held at the Park Royal Collection Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, recognized trailblazing women who have made a profound impact in the security sector across the Association of Southeast Asian (ASEAN) Region. She is the first PNP officer designated as the Permanent Secretariat of the ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Heads of Specialist Unit (HSU) Process since 2015, by virtue of PNP and DILG Orders. Breaking barriers, POLICE COLONEL MADAYAG is one of the few female awardees of the highly coveted Special Action Force (SAF) Badge and Beret, demonstrating her dedication to service and love for her country.
Her service as the COP of Marawi City and Mandaluyong City, along with her flagship project dubbed “Kumustahan with Nene and Nonoy,” paved the way for this international award. The “Kumustahan with Nene and Nonoy” project is a community education campaign that addresses the critical issue of child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSAE), both online and offline. Recognizing that CSAE is a crime often perpetrated by both local and international actors, the program emphasizes inter-agency collaboration, bringing together local and international law enforcement agencies to combat this pervasive threat. The success of “Kumustahan with Nene and Nonoy” is undeniable; it has demonstrably reduced cases of child sexual abuse and rape in Mandaluyong City, leading to well-deserved international recognition. This achievement underscores the power of community engagement and cross-border cooperation in protecting the most vulnerable members of society. The program’s impact serves as a model for other communities facing similar challenges, highlighting the vital role of leadership in safeguarding children’s well-being.
CURRENT POSTS
Today, the legacy of the “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999 continues to thrive, with many members holding esteemed ranks such as Police Colonel, Fire Senior Superintendent, and Jail Senior Superintendent. The class has produced numerous leaders in the field, including Police Provincial/City Directors, Division Chiefs, and Chiefs of Staff, among other equivalent positions. Notably, POLICE COLONEL RODOLFO DISO CASTRO, JR serves as a Police Attaché in France, POLICE COLONEL EXCELSO LAFUENTE LAZAGA, JR in Malaysia, and POLICE COLONEL MARCY SACULO SALTING in China, along with others occupying equivalent roles within the PNP.
Similarly, Jail Senior Superintendents hold significant positions, such as Division Chiefs and Assistant Regional Directors for Administration and Operations, within the BJMP. Likewise, Fire Senior Superintendents occupy important roles, including Division Chiefs and Assistant Regional Directors for Administration and Operations, within the BFP, as well as higher positions such as Acting Director of the Fire National Training Institute, held by FIRE SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT CHRISTINE DOCTOR CULA, and Acting Director of the Directorate for Comptrollership, held by FIRE SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT BERNALITA LEORNAS SILAGAN.
A notable achievement includes one member, FIRE SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT JUNITO FIANYA-AO MASLANG, who FIRST attained the rank of Fire Chief Superintendent (FCSUPT) on June 20, 2023, and is currently designated as the Regional Director for BFP Region 11.
As we reflect on the journey of the “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999, we celebrate their remarkable achievements, resilience, and unwavering commitment to public service. Their dedication to upholding the values of integrity, honor, and excellence continues to inspire future generations of cadets. With their impressive ranks and leadership positions, they exemplify the spirit of the PNPA and serve as shining examples of the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities and the nation as a whole. The legacy of the “Tanglaw-Lahi” Class of 1999 remains a guiding light for those who follow in their footsteps.
The TANGLAW-LAHI Class of 1999 had 238 graduates and produced 1 star-rank officer from the Bureau of Fire Protection, with 233 original members still living.
Source:
PNPAAAI Records
Philippine National Police Academy
