Philippine Military Academy

Here in the Academy, as in any military institutions, certain practices, extra-regulatory in nature, form the bulk of the customs and traditions sifted out from the experiences of our predecessors.

Although this set of practices possesses a certain degree of permanency, it is from time to time modified or improved upon by succeeding classes as circumstances may warrant.

The plebe traditions which are part of the Corps customs are enforced by the upperclassmen who, acting as Proletarian Guards, see to it that the fourthclassmen observe them carefully during the initial stages of their life in the Academy.

The Role of Plebe Traditions

Those who are "not in the know" might be led to believe that the plebe traditions are practiced merely to harass that plebes for the enjoyment of the upperclassmen. These customs are enforced for a deliberate constructive reason.
On the whole they are intended to imbue the newcomers with rigid discipline which cannot be learned from reading books or memorizing verbatim an accepted definition of it.

The plebes, fresh from the ease and comfort of civilian life, have to be hardened to the rigors and hardships of a sternly regimented life in this Academy.

Plebe traditions also aim to produce in the plebe certain traits of character so highly essential in a military leader.

Plebe Do's

Plebe Don'ts

Privileges

Restrictions

Plebes wear proper uniform whenever they leave their rooms for any purpose between reveille and taps. Bathrobes, pajamas, slippers, etc., are not permitted outside their rooms during this time.
Plebes double time at all places upon leaving their rooms, except when:
- Excused by the surgeon from physical exertion.
- Escorting visitors.
- Proceeding to parade ground under arms in full dress uniform.
- Going to and coming from mess.
- Outside camp proper.
They are "at ease" when they are with their visitors.
Except during the Christmas holidays, plebes are not allowed at Cadet hops. The first they may attend is the Graduation Ball.
Plebes are not allowed to use stairway banisters. They must take the steps two at a time, away from the banister.
Plebes may not watch any formation or ceremony involving upperclassmen.
Plebes will not look outside windows unnecessarily.
Plebes stand at attention when any upperclassman enters their room.
Plebes must bathe at least once daily and wash their faces before every mess formation.
Plebes are not allowed to talk to each other outside their rooms.
They may not use toilet rooms until ten minutes after breakfast, except in emergencies.
Plebes must address upperclassmen as "Sir" and may not ask questions or make statements unless permitted.
They must be at company formation locations before first call.
When "Rest" is given during formations, they execute "Parade Rest."
Plebes must keep eyes to the front when outside their rooms.
No loitering at the Post Exchange, Barber Shop, sinks in Teacher's Hall, or Cobbler's Shop.
"Off-limits" areas include:
- Clubrooms of any classes.
- The parade ground (unless for athletics).
- The Picnic Grove.
In the Mess Hall:
- Plebes may not use chair backs and only part of the seat.
- When finished eating, they roll napkins and sit at attention until dismissed.
- Feet flat, knees together, sitting erect with a soldierly posture.

Examples of Plebe Traditions

Double Timing

Take for instance the plebe tradition which requires all plebes to double time anywhere they go. Is it meant merely to tire the plebe? If that were the end in view then that tradition is unreasonable and utterly senseless.

Trotting

Trotting is a brisk, steady-paced run commonly practiced by PMA cadets as part of their physical training. It helps build endurance, discipline, and unit cohesion, often performed in formation while chanting cadet calls to boost morale and synchronization.

Toughness

Plebes are trained to be tough. They are made tough by plebe customs. Toughness is essential in fighting men. This Academy does not envision the production of "tea-cup officers" of "dancers" or "ladies escorts" but of men who can lead troops in the field of battle.