Marag Valley, a community in the northern Philippines, has produced its first-ever Philippine Military Academy (PMA) graduate, Cadet First Class (Cdt 1CL) Jose Agpuldo, from Marag Valley, Luna, Apayao. He is a member of the PMA MAndirigmang may DAngal SImbolo ng Galing at PagbangON (MADASIGON) Class of 2023.
In the past, Marag Valley was considered a rebel stronghold. The New People's Army (NPA), a communist insurgency group, had a strong presence in the area. The NPA was responsible for violence and intimidation, and many people in the community were afraid to speak out against them.
However, in recent years, Marag Valley has made significant progress and is now considered a peaceful and progressive area. This transformation is due to a number of factors, including the education of its youth, investment in infrastructure, and peace talks between the government and the NPA.
One of the key factors in Marag Valley's transformation is the education of its youth. In the past, many young people in the community were forced to drop out of school due to poverty or conflict. However, in recent years, the government has invested heavily in education, and more and more young people are now able to attend school.
This investment in education has paid off. In 2023, Marag Valley produced its first-ever PMA graduate, Cdt 1CL Jose Agpuldo. Agpuldo is a bright and motivated young man who has shown excellence in academics and athletics. He graduated cum laude from the Apayao State College and passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers.
Agpuldo's graduation is a testament to the community's transformation. It shows that the youth of Marag Valley have the potential to succeed, given the opportunity. It is also a source of inspiration for other young people in the community.
Apart from Agpuldo, a daughter of a slain soldier from Apayao is also set to graduate from PMA. She's CDT 1CL Fitzel Mae Leal who is from San Isidro Sur, Luna.
The graduation of Agpuldo and Leal is a proud moment for the people of Marag Valley and the Cordillera. It is a testament to the community's resilience and its commitment to peace and progress.
The story of Marag Valley is a reminder that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and violence. When young people have the opportunity to learn and grow, they can achieve great things. Marag Valley is a shining example of what is possible when a community invests in its youth.
The transformation of Marag Valley is an inspiration to other communities in the Philippines that are struggling with conflict and poverty. It shows that it is possible to overcome these challenges and build a better future.
