President Marcos assured the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that his administration is bent on making the country's military at par with the world's finest armed forces.
In his speech during the 89th founding anniversary of the AFP, Marcos said his administration is committed to ensuring that the AFP is prepared for a future which demands that we meet these evolving challenges head-on.
He cited the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Program which aims to reduce the AFP's dependence on foreign sources and empower the AFP to develop its own capabilities.
"But modernization is not simply about acquiring advanced equipment. It is about transforming the way we think, the way we act, and the way we operate as a unified force," he said.
To enhance the AFP's capabilities and preparedness, the government is harnessing the latest technologies, reinforcing its strategies and enhancing the skills of every soldier, sailor, airman, Marcos said.
"This ensures that we are ready to succeed in the battles on the field in cyberspace for the peace of mind of our people," Marcos said.
"After all, we are building an AFP that can hold its own on the global stage, one that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world's finest armed forces," Marcos added.
The President encouraged the AFP to lead with compassion, especially in times of crisis.
"Let the AFP emerge as the embodiment of the Filipino spirit, a spirit that stands firm against the pressure, adapts to the demands of the time, and always places the welfare of the nation above all else," he said.
The Commander-in-Chief emphasized that the threats the AFP and the nation are facing now are no longer confined to the shores or to the traditional battlefield. He said they are now complex, multi-faceted, and at times, invisible.
"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," he 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," he added.
The President commended the AFP for remaining steadfast despite all the challenges, reminding them that the government and the nation stand behind them as they continue to protect the nation.