15/03/2024
Adopted Member: PMA “Sambisig” Class of 1991
By Gabriel Ortigoza
I am deeply honored to be embraced by the esteemed Philippine Military Academy “Sambisig” Class of 1991, a distinction that holds great significance.
Connection to PMA. Born at PMA Station Hospital on September 15, 1970, and spending my formative years in Fort Del Pilar, my childhood dream was to become a PMA cadet. Although that dream did not materialized, my journey led me back to PMA in February 1995 as a 2nd Lieutenant, after my 2 years assignment at Southern Command, serving the academy diligently for 8.5 years.
Diverse Roles at PMA. During my tenure, I fulfilled various roles—from PMA Station Hospital to the Corps of Professors, teaching courses like Public Policy, International Relations, Human Resources Management, Government, Principles of Management, Economics, and First Aid. I also served in administrative capacities as Administrative Officer - Department of Languages, Deputy Head - Department of Social Sciences, Officer-In-Charge - Department of Languages, Administrative Officer - PMA Research and Development Center, Officer-In-Charge - PMA Entrance Examination in the cities of Davao, General Santos, Koronadal and Cotabato, Protocol Officer to the Dean, Corps of Professors, and Officer-In-Charge - PMA Disaster Response Task Group, contributing to the rescue and recovery efforts of critical situations. In 2001, during President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's visit to PMA, I played a pivotal role as Officer of the Day and OIC - PMA DRTG in coordinating a response to a Presidential Security Group helicopter crash, showcasing the dedication and readiness of PMA personnel. Furthermore, I lead PMA DRTG in recovering a drowned graduating nursing student at Twin Peaks Falls in Kennon Road.
Contributions to PMA. As a former member of the esteemed Corps of Professors at PMA from 2000 to 2003 teaching management and social sciences courses, coupled with my service as a military nurse assigned at Fort Del Pilar Station Hospital from 1995 to 2000, and having the unique experience of being born at PMASH in 1970 and spending my formative years within the grounds of PMA until 1972 before my family's migration to Cotabato Province, I am deeply rooted in the values and traditions instilled by the academy.
Beyond my service, I contributed significantly to PMA by writing a manual on Human Resources Management, which became a key reference for graduating cadets. Additionally, I donated copies of my doctoral dissertation on leadership and performance to the PMA Library. These books are available online at Amazon under Gabriel Ortigoza's author page.
Dual Citizenship and Philanthropy. Having spent 21 years in California, I returned to the Philippines twice a year due to my deep love for the country. Obtaining U.S. citizenship by naturalization, I later acquired dual citizenship, enabling me to invest in farmland and businesses in my hometown. I created the Macario P. Celestial Scholarship for college students at Southern Baptist College, in memory of my maternal grandfather who was one of the founders of the school and one of the pioneering officials of my town Mlang. I also established GO HELP, an acronym for Gabriel Ortigoza Higher Education Loan Program. This program allows students to loan money at a 3% interest rate, payable in one semester, to pay for their tuition. The Ortigoza Farm is the community source of organic produce like veggies and fruits. The Kamalig WRS supplies purified drinking water to the community. The Crossing Resort, my latest venture, stands as a testament to my commitment to community development.
Acknowledgments and Commitment. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Cavalier Natz Torrento who spearheaded my adoption, the endorsing class members: Cavalier Gerry Pariñas, Commo Roy Trinidad, Commo Jay Ilagan, BGen Jimmy Larida, BGen Romeo Racadio, MGen B**g Patrimonio, MGen Alex Rillera, MGen George Blanco, BGen Llewillyn Banaag, BGen Jun Balaoro, and the Sambisig Class of 1991 for embracing me as your "Mistah." To all Cavaliers, I am now your devoted partner in nation-building.
Closing Thoughts. Being associated with PMA, alongside national figures and fellow adopted members, is a privilege I cherish. Indeed, it is an honor to belong to this prestigious group of national leaders.
