President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has reiterated his administration's [commitment to modernizing](https://mb.com.ph/2023/3/17/marcos-laments-gov-t-failure-to-boost-military-capabilities) the country's armed forces to be more prepared to handle any external threat. Marcos said this as he joined the celebration of the Philippine Army's 126th anniversary in Taguig City on Wednesday, March 22. In his speech, the President said the unpredictable external security situation requires the government to adjust its strategies. "I am aware that the emerging threat to our territory and our emphasis on addressing this threat requires adjustments in our strategies. But I am confident that the Philippine Army, which has more than a century of experience, will be able to rise to the task as it has always done," he said. "As your Commander-in-Chief, I am assuring you that we remain committed to modernizing the Armed Forces so no threat will be impossible to handle," he added.

Marcos: Be vigilant against elements that will undermine our hard-earned peace, our hard-earned stability. Continue to improve relations with your counterparts overseas. Common security challenges necessitate a more concerted approach among like-minded nations. @manilabulletin

— Argyll Cyrus Geducos (@argyllcyrus_MB) March 22, 2023

According to the President, technological advancements have made the external security environment more complex and unpredictable. "While advancements in technology have facilitated greater interaction among states, amongst economies, and peoples, resulting in better development outcomes, it has also created conditions that will dictate the future of warfare," Marcos said. "That is why the Army must always be fully prepared and capable of any contingencies, especially considering you are the country's last line of defense against any external security threat. Be vigilant against elements that will undermine our hard-earned peace, our hard-earned stability," he added. President Marcos said his administration would continue supporting the troops in this endeavor as he recognized their sacrifices for the country and every Filipino. "We will continue to invest not only in modern equipment and material but also in your training, so you can keep abreast of concepts, doctrines, and strategies that we now need in the modern battlefield," he said. "I know that you march towards the battlefield not only to safeguard our beloved motherland and our future. But you also do it because you know in your very hearts that what you are doing is honorable, what you are doing is just, and what you are doing is right," he added.