Despite the odds brought about by the COVID-19 Pandemic, the 82 members of Regular Class (RC) 56 successfully completed the Master in National Security Administration (MNSA) Program. The NDCP conferred the degree during a purely virtual ceremony on 17 September 2021.

RC 56 comprises 53 officers from the Philippine Army, 10 from the Philippine Air Force, 7 from the Philippine Navy, 3 from the Technical and Administrative Service, 3 from the civilian government sector, 3 from the private sector, and 3 from foreign military organizations.

In the remarks of Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin N Lorenzana, delivered by DND Undersecretary Cardozo M Luna, the Secretary congratulated RC 56 and recognized the role of national security scholars in the country.

During the virtual conferment ceremony, outstanding students were recognized.

Academic Excellence Awardees (Gold):

Atty Felix T Sy Jr – Insights Philippines Legal Advisors

Col Julius A Cabarloc – Philippine Army

Col Leah L Santiago – Philippine Army

Academic Excellence Awardees (Silver):

Col Gremel B Brual – Philippine Army

Col Crizaldo A Fernandez – Philippine Army

LtCol Jimmy V Jimenez – Philippine Army

Academic Excellence Awardees (Bronze):

Brigadier Lanka Amarapala – Sri Lanka Army

Col Charles DZ Castillo – Philippine Army

Col Diosdado Carlos D Pambid – Philippine Army

Col Rolando Conrad B Peña III – Philippine Air Force

RC 56 is the second regular class to have experienced the MNSA Program in various modalities owing to the circumstances related to COVID-19 Pandemic. The successful conclusion of the course amidst lockdowns, quarantines, and health protocols is testament to NDCP’s commitment to adapt to changing circumstances as it delivers its mandate.