How First Aviation Academy Supports Aspiring Pilots with Custom Training Paths
It was a proud and emotional Friday for the First Aviation Academy community as 23 new pilot graduates gathered with their families and friends on August 8, 2025, to celebrate one of the biggest milestones of their aviation journey. The halls of Casa Ibarra in Pasay City served as the perfect venue for a day filled with joy, gratitude, and recognition.
The celebration began with Thanksgiving Mass, where graduates and guests offered prayers of thanks for the journey that brought them to this day. FAA General Manager Rodolfo Dino Santos then welcomed everyone with heartfelt remarks, setting a warm tone for the event.
School Administrator Maj. Gen. Guillermo Molina Jr. II, AFP (Ret.) shared the Training Journey of the graduates, reflecting on the months of classroom learning, simulator training, and in-flight experience that prepared them for their careers in aviation.
The program opened with the awarding of certificates to PATTS College of Aeronautics students who completed their Private Pilot License Ground School and on-the-job training with FAA. This was followed by the awarding of certificates to FAA’s graduating cadet pilots.
The event featured an inspiring speech by Capt. Amorelle Martinez, Chief Pilot for Flight Training, Standards, and Technical of PAL Express. She encouraged the graduates to uphold discipline, professionalism, and a commitment to continuous learning throughout their aviation careers.
Special awards recognized outstanding achievements. Alexandra Mikaela Santos received the Leadership Award for her ability to inspire and guide her peers. Marcus Patrick Ong received the Best in Flying Award for his excellent performance in the cockpit. Polo Miguel Elefante was honored with both the Best in Academics Award and the Most Distinguished Award in recognition of his exceptional performance and dedication.
FAA Chairman Eduardo Tan Luy delivered the closing remarks and led a toast to celebrate the graduates. The day concluded with a lunch banquet where graduates, their families, and guests enjoyed good food and shared stories about the journey ahead. The August 8 ceremony highlighted the achievements of FAA’s newest pilots and reflected the academy’s mission to produce highly skilled professionals ready to contribute to the aviation industry.
