FORMER House Speaker Martin Romualdez has extended his congratulations to Police Cadet Van Marie Editha Guandaya Cagasan of Baybay, Leyte, for graduating as valedictorian of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) “Silang Paglaom” Class of 2026.

Romualdez said Cagasan’s achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a source of pride for Leyte and the entire Eastern Visayas region.

He described her distinction—topping a class of 326 cadets—as an extraordinary feat, further underscored by her receipt of several top honors, including the Presidential Kampilan Award, the Chief, PNP Kampilan Award, and recognition as Best in General Education.

The former House leader noted that Cagasan’s journey is especially inspiring, as she fulfilled a promise to her late mother to complete her studies at the police academy.

Romualdez also expressed gratitude to Visayas State University for helping pave the way for Cagasan’s admission to PNPA. Before entering the academy, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology as a scholar of the Department of Agriculture.

He said Cagasan’s accomplishment stands as a testament to perseverance, discipline, and excellence, and serves as an inspiration to young Filipinos across the country.

Her success, he added, reflects the determination and potential of students from Eastern Visayas to excel on the national stage.