Culture & Entertainment · Philippines Bureau
Pisay Ilocos scholar ties for top in 2026 PMA entrance exam
A Philippine Science High School scholar from Ilocos Region has shared the top spot in the 2026 Philippine Military Academy Entrance Examination. Gabriel James Valdez tied for first place with a competitor from the Cordillera campus among over 25,000 qualified examinees.
LSN Philippines ·
SAN ILDEFONSO, Ilocos Sur — Gabriel James Valdez, a Grade 12 scholar at the Philippine Science High School Ilocos Region Campus, achieved a top ranking in the 2026 Philippine Military Academy Entrance Examination, sharing the coveted first-place position with fellow competitor Jilian Alexis Chan Lapada from the Philippine Science High School-Cordillera Administrative Region Campus.
The two examinees emerged at the pinnacle of the entrance examination results, which drew a total of 25,452 qualified test takers nationwide. The PMAEE serves as the primary assessment mechanism for prospective cadets seeking admission to the country's premier military institution.
Valdez's achievement underscores the academic caliber of scholars at the Philippine Science High School system, which has consistently produced high-performing students across various national examinations and competitions. His success represents a significant milestone for the Ilocos Region Campus and reinforces the institution's track record of excellence in science education and competitive academic performance.
The Philippine Military Academy, located in Baguio City, remains one of the most competitive and prestigious military academies in Southeast Asia. Admission through the entrance examination is considered a significant accomplishment, reflecting rigorous academic preparation and aptitude in the sciences and mathematics.