Igorota from Sagada is Air Force Top 1 of PMA Laon Alab Class 2011

Photo Courtesy || Janice Matbagan

Cordillera - A proud Igorota from Sagada, Mt. Province was among the top 10 graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Laon Alab or Lakas Tipon Alagad ng Bayan Class of 2011.

22-year old Cadet 1st Class Janice Matbagan, who traces her roots to Kiltepan and Antadao, Sagada is the recipient of the Joint United States Military Advisory Group Award being a top Philippine Air Force graduate of the class.

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Matbagan was also the Class Tarzan or the recipient of the Ahtletic Saber for her exemplary skill in sport particularly in marathon, swimming and sport.

She was also an awardee of the Australian Defense Best Overall Performance Award.

Matbagan dedicated her success in the academy to her father who didn't want her to pursue her dream to be a soldier.

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"All my life, I really wanted to please my father but becoming a soldier is a calling to me. Matbagan said in a local news interview.

"It would be happier if my father is alive because I'm not expecting to be in the top 10," she added.

Cadet Matbagan studied nursing for two years at Saint Louis University and Easter College before entering the premier military school in the country.

Her townmates in Sagada meanwhile, were very proud on her achievement because she was the only female and Cordilleran among the topnotchers.