President Marcos has told newly-promoted generals and flag officers to be mindful of the responsibilities that come with their promotion, especially at a time of "complex security challenges."
Speaking at the oath-taking ceremony of the promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday, May 13, Marcos reminded the officials that there are still missions to accomplish, considering the current "security terrain."
"After all, the load that you feel are in fact our people’s hopes. Especially now that we are at the juncture of our history where our nation faces complex security challenges," Marcos said in his speech.
The President stressed that their new ranks "does not send you out to your last patrol," but to carry out missions and service to the people.
"If any, the stars on your shoulder do not just indicate rank, but the reminders of the responsibilities – added responsibilities that you now have to carry on those shoulders," Marcos said.
"The more stars there are, the heavier the responsibility. Be mindful always of the weight that that carries," he added.
Marcos further said that the current challenges require bold thinking and brave action, which, he believes, the officers can demonstrate given their experience.
"This is the landscape that confronts you now. It is the security terrain that you have to address in the remaining tours of duty of your career," the Chief Executive said.
"As senior officers in our armed services, may the stars conferred upon you serve as an inspiration in performing your duties with utmost dedication, professionalism, integrity, all worthy of emulation," he added.
He told them to "be a boot on the ground, or be among them, and still command from the front."
He expressed hopes that the new generals and flag officers would uphold the principles that made them patriots until the last hour of their last day in office.
The Commander-in-Chief administered the oath taking of 39 newly-promoted AFP generals and flag officers at a ceremony in Malacañan.