In courtesy of GMA INTEGRATED NEWS

A 24-year-old female cadet from Baybay City, Leyte has emerged as the top graduate of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) “Silang Paglaom” Class of 2026.

According to the PNPA, Police Cadet Van Marie Editha Gundaya Cagasan was driven by her promise to her late mother who wanted to see her marching on stage and receiving her diploma.

During her second year at the PNPA, Cagasan’s mother was diagnosed with cancer, forcing the cadet to confront the reality of balancing duty and family.