President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to remain steadfast in upholding international maritime laws and fostering stronger coordination with other nations to protect the country’s territorial waters.
Speaking at the oath-taking ceremony of newly promoted AFP generals and flag officers on Wednesday, Marcos highlighted the military’s “solemn responsibility” in securing the nation’s land, seas, skies, and cyberspace.
“In defending our waters, we must uphold international maritime laws, deepening our commitment to regional peace and cooperation. By fostering coordination amongst nations, we can safeguard stability while advancing our collective interests,” Marcos said during the event.
The President underscored the importance of diplomacy, emphasizing that it should be rooted in strong legal foundations to navigate territorial and security challenges effectively.
Marcos also pointed to the need for empowering the AFP to serve with both skill and compassion, ensuring their readiness to respond to various crises, including natural disasters. He praised the military for its swift assistance to typhoon victims in recent weeks.
“After all, the stars on your shoulders signify the responsibilities you now carry—the trust of the Filipino people, the security of our nation, and the future of generations yet to come,” he added.
Assuring the AFP of his administration’s full support, Marcos reaffirmed the government’s commitment to standing alongside the armed forces in their mission to uphold the rule of law.
“Mabigat man ang inyong sinumpaang tungkulin; marami mang hamon ang kailangang harapin; makakaasa kayo na ang buong bansa ay kasama ninyo—nagdadasal para sa inyong kaligtasan, sumusuporta sa inyong mga hakbang, at umaasang maglilingkod kayo nang may katapatan sa ating bayan,” he concluded.
