Newly inducted scholars of Middle Managers Class Batch 36 mark the start of their PMDP journey.

TAGAYTAY CITY, July 10, 2025 — The Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP), through its Public Management Development Program (PMDP), officially welcomed the 45 scholars of Middle Managers Class (MMC) Batch 36 in a meaningful Opening Ceremony held at the DAP Conference Center, Tagaytay City. More than a formal gathering, the ceremony served as a moment of reflection and renewal for the country’s next generation of public sector leaders.

The event capped a full day of orientation and community building for the new batch of scholars representing national government agencies, government-owned and -controlled corporations, and other public sector institutions. Earlier that day, the scholars took part in a series of onboarding sessions—from academic policy briefings to reflective journaling—carefully designed to prepare them for the rigors and rewards of the PMDP’s intensive training.

In the afternoon, MMC Batch 35 – Padayon welcomed the new cohort through the traditional Salubong, a symbolic passing of the torch from one class to the next. Outgoing scholars shared heartfelt testimonials and words of encouragement, while the incoming batch began writing down their aspirations—marking the beginning of their own transformative journey.

The formal Opening Ceremony commenced in the evening with welcome remarks from Vice President Nanette C. Caparros of the Center for CES Development (CCD). In her address, VP Caparros commended the scholars for embracing the challenge of public leadership—one that demands discipline, empathy, and the courage to lead with integrity and vision. “You are here because you chose to go beyond the ordinary,” she affirmed. “You chose the demanding yet life-changing path — the path of true leadership, the path of service that transforms not only institutions but lives.”

Following her remarks, the ceremony proceeded with the introduction of the program’s dedicated faculty and support staff. Director Sheryl D. Reyes of the Senior Executive Development Office presented the esteemed faculty members, while Director Myda A. Nieves of the Junior Executive Development Office introduced the CCD and Learning Management teams—key pillars in the scholars’ learning journey.

The Rite of Inclusion, a signature PMDP tradition, was led by Professor Aurma M. Manlangit, Class Director for MMC Batch 36. One by one, she introduced each scholar, formally inducting them into the program. As their names were called and their institutional logos mounted on the board, the moment symbolized both recognition and responsibility—the official start of a journey defined by excellence, transformation, and service.

Each logo, a symbol of service and accountability—MMC Batch 36 formally steps into the fold, bringing with them the hopes and mandates of the institutions they represent.

The ceremonial Challenge for Excellence was delivered by Michael J. Cabrera, Class President of MMC Batch 35 – Padayon. In an impassioned address, Cabrera called on the new batch to embrace both the discipline and transformation that come with the PMDP experience. Speaking on behalf of his batch, he reminded MMC 36 that their selection into the program was not merely a recognition of past achievements, but a call to rise even higher in service, leadership, and purpose.

This was met with a warm and confident response from Maria Odette G. Abitan, Class Representative of MMC 36 from the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development – Cordillera Administrative Region. Speaking on behalf of the incoming batch, Abitan affirmed their readiness to embrace the path laid before them—one marked by challenge, growth, and transformation. With sincere gratitude and eager resolve, she acknowledged the legacy of excellence upheld by the program and pledged that Batch 36 would rise to meet the expectations.

Capping the evening was an inspirational keynote address delivered by Ivan Brian L. Inductivo, PhD, CESO VI, OIC-Schools Division Superintendent of the Department of Education, Schools Division Office of General Trias City, and a proud alumnus of MMC Batch 25 – Aguhon. He was introduced by Director Carmelita F. Young of the Advocacy and Admission Office, who underscored his continued impact in education and public leadership. Speaking from personal experience, OIC-SDS Inductivo reflected on how the PMDP not only sharpened his leadership skills but also gave him the time and space to reflect on his public service journey.

Addressing the new scholars, he spoke of the “middle” as sacred ground—where managers are neither at the base nor at the peak, but positioned to bridge policy and implementation, purpose and process. He emphasized that while experience teaches, reflected experience transforms—and PMDP offers precisely that: a chance to pause, to discern, and to recommit to meaningful leadership. His rousing message concluded with a call for consistency and discipline: to keep showing up, not just for the program, but for the Filipino public they are bound to serve—reminding them that while they may stand in the middle, their impact can shape both ends of the public service spectrum.

Drawing from his own PMDP journey, alumnus Dr. Inductivo invites the scholars to lead from “the middle”—where real transformation quietly begins.

The ceremony concluded with the singing of the DAP Hymn and a group photo opportunity, marking the formal start of a shared journey—one that demands not only learning, but also leadership with empathy and intent. 

The MMC 36 with the MMC 35-Padayon and PMDP Family—united by a shared commitment to lead with excellence and empathy.

As Batch 36 embarks on this rigorous journey of learning, reflection, and leadership formation, they do so bearing not only the weight of their own aspirations—but also the collective hope for a public sector that is more capable, compassionate, and committed to serving the Filipino people.