A young cadet from Kabacan, North Cotabato has achieved a remarkable milestone abroad, earning recognition that has sparked pride throughout Central Mindanao. Cadet First Class Guidson Tesoro Domingo, 24, has become the first Filipino to receive the prestigious Star Cadet Award from the Korean Military Academy (KMA).
In addition to this top honor, he also earned the Outstanding Foreign Cadet Award and the Republic of Korea Army Comradeship Award, highlighting his exceptional performance in academics, training, and leadership.
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Recognition on the Global Stage
Domingo received his awards from KMA Superintendent Maj. Gen. Hyeonggi So during formal ceremonies on Feb. 26 last year, the same day he was promoted to First Class Cadet. Originally part of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Bagong Sinag” Class of 2024, he is expected to graduate this month (March 2026) with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations.
The Star Cadet Award is considered equivalent to the PMA’s Starman Award and is reserved for cadets demonstrating excellence across multiple areas, including physical fitness and summer training. Relatives who attended the 2025 KMA ceremony shared photos online, which quickly went viral and were widely reported in Central Mindanao media outlets.
Domingo joined KMA in 2021 through the PMA Foreign Pre-Commissioning Training Institution Service program, which aims to develop officers capable of performing on a global level. The program builds on longstanding diplomatic ties between the Philippines and South Korea, established during the Korean War.
In May 2025, he also secured 2nd place in the Korean Speaking Contest at Kyungrip Changwon National University, further emphasizing his academic and cultural adaptability.
“I humbly attribute these recognitions to God’s provision, the guidance of my superiors, and the solid foundation instilled in me by the Philippine Military Academy,” Cadet Domingo shared. “I remain committed to upholding the highest standards expected of a Filipino officer.”
Another Mindanaoan Excels Abroad
Cadet First Class Lemuel H. Ego-Ogan, 25, of Poblacion Compostela, Davao de Oro, also completed his training overseas, graduating from the Republic of Korea Naval Academy on 27 February 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in Oceanography. Ego-Ogan received several distinctions, including recognition as a U.S. Chinhae Naval Force Command Korea awardee in an essay competition, as well as merits for communication, intelligence, and operational excellence.
Both cadets will return to the Philippines to serve in the Philippine Army and Navy. Their overseas exposure strengthened ties with allied forces and enhanced operational knowledge, reinforcing the country’s defense capabilities.
Domingo’s accomplishment offers inspiration beyond the military. For North Cotabato and the wider Filipino community, his achievements demonstrate that dedication, discipline, and international training can bring recognition not just to individuals, but also elevate national pride and professional standards.
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