A lively performance of MMC 35 Padayon’s original song and dance brought the night to a joyful close

Tagaytay City, Philippines—After six months of intensive training under the Public Management Development Program (PMDP), the Middle Managers Class (MMC) Batch 35, fondly known as “Padayon”, marked the conclusion of their residential journey with a vibrant Hawaiian-themed Closing Program held at the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) Conference Center in Tagaytay City.

The event officially opened with welcome remarks from Ms. Myda A. Nieves, Director of the Junior Executive Development Office of the Center for CES Development (CCD). Class President Cabrera reflected on the journey they shared, describing it as a bridge-building experience—not only among themselves, but also across silos in the bureaucracy. Learning Team (LT) representatives added depth to the celebration by sharing heartfelt stories. Jan Evan R. Callejo of LT Yabong expressed gratitude to the DAP-PMDP team, faculty, and classmates for the invaluable lessons and support they received throughout the training. Cathy B. Pastor of LT Buklod highlighted the personal sacrifices each member made, while Norberto L. Manlapas of LT Sulo reminded everyone that their shared struggles made the experience even more meaningful.

MMC 35 Padayon scholars proudly pose as a class with their Certificates of Completion for the Residential Training Phase

One of the key highlights was the awarding of Certificates of Completion, led by CCD Vice President Nanette C. Caparros. The certificate signifies the scholars’ successful completion of the residential training phase and stands as a symbol of their commitment to better public service and leadership.

To cap off the day, the class enjoyed a fun-filled afterparty. Hawaiian-themed peer awards were handed out, and lively games such as the limbo rack and newspaper dance brought cheer to the room. A surprise tropical dance performance, led by Ms. Carmelita N. Ericta, Faculty-In-Charge of MMC Batch 35’s Capstone Project, added to the energy. The class also performed an original Padayon-themed song and dance number, further igniting the celebratory mood.

In her closing “Pabaon” message, Class Director Ms. Virginia C. Aldea encouraged the batch to keep asking questions and to keep their inner fire alive despite future challenges.

Members, MMC Batch 35 Learning Management Team, and the PMDP Directors and Staff

With training now behind them, the “Padayons” look forward to bringing their Capstone Plans to life within their respective agencies—a crucial step before they return for the presentation of their final Capstone Reports.

The next Middle Managers Class (MMC),  Batch 37 will commence on 8 January 2026, while the ensuing Senior Executives Class (SEC),  Batch 15 will begin on 9 February 2026. The deadline for nominations is 15 October 2025 for MMC Batch 37 and 30 November 2025 for SEC Batch 15.

For more information, visit https://pmdp.dap.edu.ph or contact the PMDP Admissions Office via email at pmdp.admissions@dap.edu.ph or by phone at 0969-586-7046 / (02) 8631-0921, locals 125–127.