By Zaldy De Layola
MANILA – Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Tuesday lauded a homegrown achiever from Eastern Visayas after Police Cadet Van Marie Editha Gundaya Cagasan of Baybay City, Leyte topped the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) “Silang-Paglaom” Class of 2026.
Her feat, Romualdez said, marks “a proud moment for Leyte and for the entire Eastern Visayas,” underscoring the “excellence, discipline and character” behind her achievement.
Cagasan led a graduating class of 326 cadets, further distinguished by receiving the Presidential Kampilan Award, the Chief, PNP Kampilan Award and recognition as Best in General Education.
But beyond the accolades, Romualdez pointed to the deeper story behind the achievement, making her accomplishment even more meaningful, and all the more worthy of admiration from the people of Leyte and the rest of the country.
“What makes her story especially powerful is that it goes far beyond medals, rank and ceremony. Isa itong kuwento ng talino, tibay ng loob at pagmamahal sa pamilya (It’s a story of talent, inner strength and love of family),” Romualdez said in a news release.
“A promise to her late mother helped carry her through the hardest years of cadet life, and that private grief became the fuel for a very public triumph, one that now stands as an inspiration for young people in Leyte and across the country.”
Romualdez said Cagasan’s journey reflects resilience shaped by hardship and purpose.
“Van Marie’s journey gives people something deeper to hold on to because it shows what can rise from pain when it is met with resolve, faith and a sense of duty,” he said.
“Leyte takes pride in her not only because she finished first, but because she carried to the top a story shaped by loss, perseverance and the quiet strength to keep moving forward when life became most difficult.”
The former Speaker also recognized the role of Visayas State University (VSU) in Cagasan’s formation prior to entering the PNPA.
Cagasan previously took up Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology at VSU as a Department of Agriculture scholar.
“There is something deeply meaningful in the fact that a university long known for agriculture and science also helped produce a future police officer whose life story now speaks of courage, duty and sacrifice,” Romualdez said.
Romualdez said VSU “deserves recognition not only for its long and distinguished academic legacy in Leyte and the Visayas, but also for continuing to produce young people whose excellence brings honor to the province and strength to the nation.” (PNA)
