President Marcos hails AFP as a force for peace

MANILA, Philippines — Amid the “pervasive force of misinformation and disinformation” that threatens democracy, President Marcos commended the military yesterday for being “a force for peace and solidarity” and a partner in nation building.

Speaking at the 89th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Marcos said the AFP has weathered the darkest storms and risen to the most pressing challenges for almost nine decades.

“The geopolitical developments and tensions continue to test our sovereignty and our resolve. The surge in cybersecurity threats, if unchallenged and unaddressed, will challenge our national security,” the President said.

“Meanwhile, the pervasive force of misinformation and disinformation undermines the values that we all hold dear, threatening the democracy we have fought so hard to protect,” the President and commander-in-chief said.

“Despite all of these, the AFP has remained steadfast. You have shown that you are a force for peace, a force of progress and solidarity – a partner in building a stronger, more resilient Bagong Pilipinas,” he said.

In his speech, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. noted how the country’s military “has been undaunted in asserting our sovereignty” over the West Philippine Sea.

“With modernized tools and strategic international partnerships, we carry on in strengthening our maritime presence, securing our exclusive economic zone and upholding the principles of international law,” Brawner said.

“This mission goes beyond defending territorial claims. It is about preserving ideals that define us as a nation,” he added.

The AFP noted that at the heart of such efforts is the AFP Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) aimed at strengthening the country’s territorial defense capabilities.

He described the CADC as “a visionary strategy that harmonizes our military capabilities with the unique geographic realities of the Philippines, ensuring a robust and sustainable defense of our maritime domain.”

President Marcos and AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. troop the line during the 89th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines yesterday at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City. — Noel Pabalate

“To every soldier, sailor, marine, airman and reservist, your courage, professionalism and unwavering loyalty inspire the nation. You are the guardians of our sovereignty and the builders of a brighter tomorrow. Let us continue to embody the ideals of integrity and excellence as we work toward a stronger and more capable Armed Forces,” he said.

Prior to the anniversary celebration, Marcos presided over the fourth quarter command conference of the AFP at Camp Aguinaldo.

No details have been provided by the Presidential Communications Office on the President’s meeting with top military officials.

Marcos earlier denied conducting loyalty checks during his meetings with military and police officials and personnel, saying the country is “quite stable” despite “political noise.”

Rumors about alleged ouster plots against him surfaced following Vice President Sara Duterte’s falling-out with him, his family and the administration.

Marcos renewed his commitment to modernizing the AFP, ensuring that they are prepared for the future.

“Through the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Program, we aim to reduce our dependence on foreign sources and empower the AFP to develop its own capabilities,” Marcos said.

“We stand behind you – we will provide the tools, the resources, the support necessary to help you succeed. We will ensure that your sacrifices are met with tangible action: the modernization of our assets, the protection of your families’ welfare and the recognition of your invaluable contributions to our shared future,” the President said.

During the event, the President bestowed the Medal of Valor on Army Lt. Dhell Jhun Evangelista, one of the 23 soldiers who died while fighting the Abu Sayyaf group in Tipo-tipo, Basilan in 2009. The award was received by his brother.

As part of the celebration, Marcos also led the launching of the newly renovated AFP Museum which will soon open to the public and will feature various types of military weaponry, from cannons and rifles to tanks and helicopters.

Also being featured at the museum is the “Bongbong Rocket,” which was developed and test fired during the administration of Marcos’ father, the late president Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

The rocket was conceptualized as the Philippines tried to develop indigenous weapons for the AFP to wean itself from importing defense equipment.