Marcos tells AFP to enhance existing alliances

MANILA, Philippines — With the country “in the middle of geopolitical developments and tensions,” the Armed Forces of the Philippines should enhance its partnerships and forge new alliances with foreign counterparts, President Marcos told the AFP yesterday on its 88th anniversary.

Marcos’ exhortation came days after he announced a “paradigm shift” in dealing with China, which has consistently ignored Manila’s diplomatic initiatives to stop its aggressive behavior in the West Philippine Sea.

Marcos also thanked the AFP for being the “force and voice of reason” in the handling of geopolitical tensions sparked by Chinese provocations in Philippine waters.

“You have become crucial as in the past years as the Philippines found itself in the middle of geopolitical developments and tensions that could potentially cause regional insecurity or endanger people’s lives and livelihoods,” Marcos said.

“But despite many attempts of provocation, the Philippines – through the AFP – remains a force and a voice of reason, exemplifying responsible and dignified behavior in resolving issues in accordance with international law,” he added.

“Let us continue to explore so that we may forge new partnerships based on common goals, values and at the same time advancing the national interest,” he added.

Marcos, over the weekend, said the Philippines has started pursuing a new strategy to counter Chinese aggression, noting how current methods have yielded “very little progress.”

While the government has not revealed yet its new diplomatic tact with Beijing, Marcos earlier said it would hinge on tapping existing and prospective alliances, including engaging its allied states to devise a joint resolution defining their responsibilities in the South China Sea.

“And so, we have, in my review, it’s time that the countries that feel that they have an involvement in this situation, we have to come up with a paradigm shift,” the President said over the weekend.

The Chief Executive also urged the AFP to remain “undeterred by actions that stir tension.”

“I know that our soldiers and troops espouse the same values and principles and they remain undeterred by actions that stir tension… the AFP must continue to improve its readiness to effectively prevent and respond properly to current and emerging threats,” he said.

“This administration remains committed to supporting initiatives that would bolster our armed forces external defense capabilities,” he added.

Hike in Medal of Valor gratuity

In his speech, Marcos also announced an increase in the monthly gratuity pay of Medal of Valor (MOV) holders in the AFP.

While he did not mention figures, Marcos said the amount would “adequately reward” current holders of the MOV, who, upon receiving the medal, are entitled to a lifetime monthly gratuity pay.

“As recommended by the Department of National Defense and the AFP, we will also adequately reward the existing (MOV) awardees – the increase of their lifetime monthly gratuity for displaying bravery and heroism in defending our freedom,” Marcos said.

The monthly gratuity pay of MOV awardees was last raised in 2016 by then-president Rodrigo Duterte, from P25,000 to P75,000.

Marcos said the hike will “provide them with a tangible and meaningful reward, highlighting our commitment to support and honor our war heroes.”

Considered the highest military honor, the MOV is awarded to military personnel for conspicuous acts of bravery or self-sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty. There have been over 40 recipients of the medal.

In the same event, AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. led the granting of recognition to those who gave their “invaluable support” to the military’s “Pagkakaisa” campaign.

In his message during the awarding ceremony, flag-raising and interfaith prayer, Brawner urged military personnel, civilian employees and AFP partners to harness the power of unity, strength and resilience that he said is in every Filipino.

“It symbolizes the history we carry, the sacrifices of our ancestors, and the dreams of tomorrow’s generations. I express my heartfelt gratitude to our awardees whose exceptional contributions have earned our utmost admiration. Your commitment and support have played a vital role in our achievements,” he said.

AFP public affairs office chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said stakeholders recognized were selected for their contributions to the campaign, particularly their direct involvement in AFP objectives.

People’s organizations honored include former underground mass organizations of the New People’s Army.

Among the awardees were Winifredo Doblizo Jr., president of Sentrong Alyansa ng mga Mamamayan para sa Bayan, Jerwin Castigador of Kapatiran ng mga Dating Rebelde ng Palawan, Francis Lopez of the Solid Indigenous New Adventures Guide, San Fernando City, La Union Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto; and Myrna Mallari, Tarlac State University Board of Regents.

Also given the Pagkakaisa Award were Johannes Bruwer, head of International Committee of the Red Cross Delegation to the Philippines; Verlin Ruiz, former president of the Defense Press Corps of the Philippines; Renault Lao, CEO of Ornate Architectural Details and Design; Rogelio Buton Jr., officer-in-charge of Health Ministry of Davao Central Seventh Day Adventist Church; May Divino, Rotary Club District of Davao 3860 president; Basilan Gov. Hadjiman Haraman Salliman; Jay Ar Altuhanan Domino of Anlag-Ani Tapukanan Consumers Cooperative; Liezel Ann Culot of Community Integration Flex A, B 13; and Christina Dakendek, president of Samahang Nagkakaisa Tungo sa Bagong Pag-asa.