Written by Wayne Y. Bagaoisan, Voughn Liam D. Laruan and Samuel C. Bagtila Jr. | Photographed by Wayne Y. Bagaoisan
Meet Cadet/LTC Jenny Rose L. Palangdao, the Cadet Corps Commander under the University of Baguio Philippine Army ROTC Unit. Earning a recognition after being named the best AFP ROTC Female Cadet Year 2025. An Alumni of the Bachelor of Criminology program at the University of Baguio. From there, she received a recommendation under LT/COL EFIPANIO R GAMINDE IV to guide, train, and develop future cadets of the UBROTCU unit as a Graduate Military Assistant. Known for her commanding presence but also for her innovative leadership style, attributing towards the success of the University of Baguio ROTC unit.
The recognition was given by the Armed Forces of the Philippines as part of celebrating the 90th Founding Anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines that was held on 19 December 2025. The awarding ceremony took place at the General Headquarters of the AFP in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City, where AFP military officials honored the country’s most outstanding ROTC cadets. During the ceremony, the award was given by no other than his excellency, Bongbong” Romualdez Marcos Jr., for the support of the AFP’s continued commitment to strengthening the Reserve Force through leadership development in the ROTC programs nationwide.
The University of Baguio was formally honored by the Armed Forces of the Philippines with a Plaque of Recognition during the 90th AFP Founding Anniversary at the University of Baguio In recognition of its unwavering support and commitment to developing student leaders like Cadet Palangdao. Acknowledging the university’s role in providing a nurturing environment for its UBROTC cadets. By combining academic excellence and rigorous training. University officials, including President Dr. Javier Herminio Bautista, Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Janice Kaylyn K. Lonogan, and SCJPS Dean Dr. Charesma Grace Lud-ayen, received the plaque given by Brig. Gen. Danilo I Dupiag PA, the Acting Deputy Chief of Staff for Reservists, with the company of LTC Jeofrey Codiamat (INF) PA, the Director of the 1401st Community Defense Center, and faculty staff of the SCJPS, who contributed to the success of the UBROTCU.
Before receiving the AFP ROTC Female Cadet of the Year for Calendar Year 2025, Cadet Palangdao had a record of youth leadership and Selfless service. As Amongst her previous recognitions are the Top Performing Youth Leader of Baguio, a Stakeholders Award from the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, and the Youth Integrity and Empowerment Award from the International Association of World Peace Advocates for the Asia-Pacific region. These recognitions highlight her involvement not only in the Armed Forces of the Philippines but also in initiatives to promote integrity, leadership, and civic participation among the youth of the nation.
Her approach to leadership places equal value on community engagement and collaboration with partner organizations. Through these efforts, the University of Baguio ROTC Unit strengthened its partnerships, reinforcing that the idea of ROTC training extends beyond the University of Baguio campus for unconditional service to the community. Her recognition as the country’s AFP ROTC Female Cadet of the Year for 2025 serves as both an honor and an inspiration to all. It signals a call to continue raising the standard of leadership within the ROTC program to develop disciplined, capable, and service-oriented students prepared to contribute to the nation.
As the Armed Forces of the Philippines continues to strengthen its Reserve Force through programs like ROTC, the stories such as Cadet Palangdao’s forged by the University of Baguio’s core values of competence, integrity, and service illustrate how dedication, mentorship, and collective efforts can shape the next generation of leaders committed to serving the country with integrity and purpose.
The achievements of Cadet/LTC Jenny Rose L. Palangdao and the University of Baguio ROTC program align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), reflecting;
SDG 4: Quality Education, The University of Baguio provides rigorous academic and leadership training, emphasizing competency, integrity, and holistic development. ROTC programs integrate education with discipline and civic responsibility.
SDG 5: Gender Equality, Cadet Palangdao’s recognition as the AFP ROTC Female Cadet of the Year highlights female leadership in a traditionally male-dominated military training program. It promotes the visibility and empowerment of women in leadership roles.
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, The ROTC program promotes equal opportunities for leadership, mentoring, and community engagement regardless of gender, background, or status.
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, ROTC instills values of civic responsibility, integrity, and service to the nation. It supports strong institutions by producing leaders committed to ethical governance and social responsibility.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, The university collaborates with the AFP, local organizations, and partner institutions to enhance leadership programs and community service initiatives.
