HE WEARS the badges of the military’s most elite combat units—the Special Forces, the Scout Rangers, and the Airborne.
But on May 20, 2026, Major Krisjuper Andreo J. Punsalan proved that his strategic communication skills are just as sharp as his tactical capabilities.
Punsalan, the public information branch chief of the Philippine Army, was recognized as the Distinguished Honor Graduate after finishing number one in the Public Affairs Course for International Students (PACIS) Class 010-2026 at Fort Meade, Maryland.
The grueling course was conducted by the Defense Information School (DINFOS), the US Department of Defense’s premier institution for military journalism, public affairs, and strategic communication.
Punsalan topped an elite class of 10 delegates drawn from global militaries, including Brazil, Italy, Jordan, Latvia, Lithuania, South Korea, and Taiwan.
The Philippines made a clean sweep of top spots, with Major Mark Anthony G. Cardinoza placing in the top three and Major Gen. Adrian M. Gautane finishing in the top six.
For Punsalan, the achievement brings distinct honor back to his home province of Pampanga. Born and raised in the City of San Fernando and the municipality of Apalit, the officer is no stranger to being recognized by his peers.
He was previously awarded the Most Outstanding Apaliteño in 2024 and the Outstanding Fernandino in 2025 for exemplary military service that has consistently brought pride to the Kapampangan community.
As the Philippine Army continues to modernize its defense posture, officers like Punsalan highlight the growing importance of “hybrid” operators—soldiers who are equally lethal on the battlefield and adept at winning the information war through global communication standards.
