The recent Philippine Navy's 127th anniversary celebration was a clear assertion that the sea is ours, and we will protect it. With the rising maritime disputes and evolving security risks, the Navy displayed bravery, clarity, and dedication. At the same time, a fresh generation of soldiers has emerged from the sacred grounds of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), ready, perhaps impatient, to begin their adventure. To the new lieutenants and ensigns, I offer a few words, not as a lecture, but as a brother's advice based on my long military service.

Let us start by saluting the sailors and marines who have crewed the ships, secured the horizons, and protected our archipelago for 127 years. This year's Navy Day commissioned two contemporary ships: the BRP Miguel Malvar and the BRP Albert Majini.

As the Philippines' most heavily armed surface combatant to date, BRP Miguel Malvar is a 3,200-ton guided missile frigate. Eight C-Star anti-ship cruise missiles, 16 Vertically Launched-MICA surface-to-air missiles, and a sophisticated active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system are all carried by her. Air, subsurface, and ship defense capabilities are the three main pillars of a multi-layered defense capacity. In disputed areas such as the West Philippine Sea, this is a pivotal force.

She is accompanied by BRP Albert Majini, a domestically built fast attack interdiction craft equipped with 32-kilometer-range Spike Non-Line of Sight (NLOS) missiles. These Acero-class gunboats are small, swift, and deadly for littoral and coastal operations. These ships work together to create a force that can dominate deep waters and strike swiftly and precisely near shore.

Modern equipment is not the only aspect of this progress. It is a declaration of purpose. The Navy has demonstrated that it is not just existing but also ready for anything, from the island maneuvers of Mindanao to the West Philippine Sea. Our Navy has emerged as a symbol of service with compassion and strength, whether it be via rescue efforts, humanitarian missions, or doggedly opposing foreign intrusions. The President's remarks, "Wala tayong isusuko, wala tayong papabayaan," are crystal clear. We must defend our sovereignty with tenacity grounded in law and principle rather than with violence.

Let's be realistic, though, and remember that these ships do not become combat-ready overnight, especially with tremendous weaponry. They must go through extensive crew training, systems integration, and sea trials prior to full deployment. It is necessary to test communications, calibrate equipment, and evaluate operational preparedness. Although the ships will take some time to reach full mission capabilities, their commissioning marks their admission into the Navy.

Let's now turn our attention to the PMA graduates who will soon be responsible for commanding troops, executing decisions under duress, and leading troops. Listen closely: leadership begins where rank ends.

Your commission is not a crown; it is a cross. Take care of your troops—not just with orders, but with honor. Never touch their money. Never violate their trust. Respect their families, for that is where loyalty is born. When you listen to your seasoned sergeants, you don’t lose authority—you gain wisdom.

Know the terrain, including the cultural and human landscapes in addition to the physical one. Adapt, but remain true to your principles. When appropriate, question accepted methods; don't mindlessly adhere to "how it's always been done." The battlefield evolves, and so your strategies must also.

The harsh reality is that you are not the only person who can solve our country's issues. Your adversary is complex, whether it be an external invasion or an insurgency. You have to collaborate across sectors. Information, economics, and diplomacy are also on your side.

Above all, mentor. Teach your soldiers to think as well as to follow. Share what you know. Talk about your errors. Be the type of leader whose followers remember lessons learned as well as commands given.

And when you're feeling worn out, lonely, and unsure if your sacrifices were worth it, keep in mind that the beaming smile of a child you helped, the handshake of a farmer you stood up for, or the silent confidence of a soldier you led are medals that are worn in your heart rather than on your chest.

And to the PMA graduates who are now about to enter the service, this is the future you will defend. Although these ships with their systems are strong, their role will be determined by your discipline, leadership, and honor. Modern equipment can secure borders, but sovereignty can only be preserved by humans.

Our maritime domain is vast. The mission is immense. The Filipino spirit, on the other hand, is unflinching, uncompromising, and unshakable.

Mabuhay ang Hukbong Dagat ng Pilipinas!

At sa mga bagong opisyal ng Sandatahang Lakas—sama-sama tayong lalaban, sama-sama tayong maglilingkod!