President Marcos has renewed his vow to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), starting with investing in talents, specialists, and leaders who will bridge the gap between tradition and innovation.

Marcos said this as he led the joint graduation ceremony of the Major Services Officer Candidate Course (MS OCC) in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Friday, Dec. 13.

In his speech, the President said his administration will build an AFP as a beacon of strength, alliance, resilience, and technological excellence.

"To all the members of the AFP, be assured that this Administration remains committed to transforming our AFP into a world-class force that is a source of national pride and national security," he said.

"We will modernize your equipment, enhance your training programs, [and] ensure that you are equipped to face challenges not just today but also of the future," he added.

Addressing the new graduates, President Marcos reminded them of their sworn duties to the country and the people.

"Your graduation day today signifies the culmination of your determination, sacrifice, and hard work to overcome the challenges of becoming an officer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. “This marks the beginning of your role to ensure the defense of our nation and the safety of all Filipinos," he said.  

"Maraming salamat sa pagtanggap sa hamong makapagsilbi sa ating minamahal na Pilipinas. Saan man kayo maitalaga, nawa’y maglingkod kayo nang may kahusayan, katapatan at karangalan (Thank you for accepting the challenge of serving our beloved Philippines. Please serve with efficiency, honesty, and honor wherever you may be assigned)," he added.

President Marcos likewise expressed confidence that the new officers would carry out their duty to defend the country and maintain peace.

"I am very proud to know that the future of our nation’s defense and peace lies in capable and honorable hands," he said.

Before concluding his speech, Marcos emphasized the importance of everyone’s participation in building a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Bagong Pilipinas.

The MS OCC is a one-year program for baccalaureate degree holders to be commissioned as officers in the Philippine Army (PA) and Philippine Air Forces as Second lieutenant.

It is also for the Philippine Navy (PN) as Ensigns in the AFP regular force.

The program includes basic military training, officer training, warfighting, and fields of specialization aligned with the respective service branches.

The initiative for a Joint OCC began in 2013 as a foundation for developing synergy among the major service branches.

This year's graduation is composed of 610 graduates: 362 cadets from the PA - Katarakian Class 61-2024, 173 cadets from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) - Sigmandigan Class 2024, and 75 cadets from the Philippine Navy PN - Mangisalakan Class 42-2024.

During the program, President Marcos conferred awards to the top four students from various Officer Candidate Schools (OCS) and handed over the diplomas to the Class President of each class.