25/05/2025
𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐃𝐎𝐖𝐍 | 𝟐 𝐃𝐀𝐘𝐒
As the VALHAREANS Class of 2025 1B nears the attention call for their final march across the hallowed grounds of the academy, their journey stands as a testament to the leadership, discipline, and growth they have cultivated. At the core of this journey stands Midn 1CL Jopol Jose Ancheta VI, the Fleet Deputy Commander and a proud Charlie Corsair.
Entrusted with assuming the duties of the Fleet Commander in their absence, he is also responsible for managing the Fleet’s conduct and maintaining its official records. Beyond his primary role, he actively contributes to the Fleet through various affiliations: as a member of the Honor Board, Squadron Policy Officer, MIC Volleyball Fleet Squad, and Company Religious Officer.
Shaped by the streets of the “Land of the Brave”, Cavite City, Cavite, 1CL Ancheta had always been deeply grounded in the principles instilled by the women who raised him, 1CL Ancheta lived a life untouched by carefreeness, guided instead by conviction - carrying with him the wisdom of his roots in all aspects of his life. Yet, despite his disciplined nature, he is far from deprived - his freedom simply takes a different form - expressed through his passion for sports, active voice in journalism, and involvement in student organizations that would later shape his leadership.
Upon entering the hallowed grounds of the academy, he quickly rose to class deputy commander. Though he brought prior leadership experience, MAAP was a different arena—demanding transformation, not just titles. In those early, chaotic days, with cadets uncertain of their roles, he stood firm in his principles. Refusing to stand idle, he committed to guiding his peers, helping them reach their full potential and setting high standards for the classes to come.
Although the sea was not his heart’s first calling, there came a moment that it dawned on him - he had found a new home,not just by chance but by purpose. He discovered a genuine desire to lead, not for recognition, but to create a meaningful change . While he admitted that he has his own limitations, yet he is unafraid to go beyond them . Rather taking criticisms as an offense, he embraces it as a tool for development. In the ever evolving maritime industry, he knows that knowledge is never static.With a mindset rooted from optimism and principles, he embraces each day as a process, trusting that progress comes not from chasing it, but committing to it.
For him despite being second-in-command, it does not mean that your are just a shadow. People still look up to you. You’re expected to be sharp - your action, words, uniform, and academic standing must all reflect the standards of MAAP. The eyes of the underclassmen are keenly observing you especially if they’re new and unsure. He takes on the role as a coach, observing everything and always listening, and ready to make suggestions to guide the fleet to the right path.
As he is now about to traverse uncharted seas, he reminds his underclassmen that MAAP cadets not just carry their own names, but the legacy of their institution. While they may not feel that gravity yet, they will feel its significance once they step out to the real world. “The academy provides all the ingredients for excellence - equipment, resources, structure, and discipline - it is up to them to rise up to the challenge. You’ll face temptations along the way, but in the end only you benefit or suffer from your choices”.
The discipline at MAAP is built not in fear, but in principle,demands integrity, responsibility, and self-respect. True character is built not through recognition, but by consistently doing what’s right, even when it’s difficult or unseen.
Edited by: Midn 2CL Rojas, Gabriel Luis