Culture & Entertainment · Philippines Bureau
PMA's first female summa cum laude elevated to Army brigadier general
Army Brig. Gen. Leah Lorenzo Santiago has been promoted to the rank of brigadier general, marking another milestone for one of the Philippine Military Academy's pioneering female graduates. Santiago, who was the PMA's first female summa cum laude, received arrival honors at the military school on Tuesday following her promotion.
LSN Philippines ·
BAGUIO CITY — Army Brig. Gen. Leah Lorenzo Santiago has achieved another historic distinction in her military career with her promotion to the rank of brigadier general, cementing her position as a trailblazer in the Philippine Armed Forces.
Santiago, who ranks among the Philippine Military Academy's first female graduates, was recognized for her academic excellence as the school's first female summa cum laude. Her ascent through the military ranks represents a significant milestone for women in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The newly promoted general received formal arrival honors at the PMA's Sundial on Tuesday as part of the ceremonies marking her rank elevation. Santiago was among 13 military officers who received promotions, underscoring the ongoing advancement of personnel within the Armed Forces hierarchy.
Her promotion reflects both her professional accomplishments and the increasing presence of women in senior military leadership positions in the Philippines. As the military service continues to modernize its officer corps, Santiago's elevation serves as an example of merit-based advancement within the Armed Forces.