Marcos tells AFP: Boost presence on land, sea, air
Published Sep 17, 2025 10:42 am
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. administers the oath of office to the newly promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Malacañan on Sept. 17, 2025. (RTVM)
President Marcos has directed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to strengthen its presence across all domains, stressing the need to guard peace and uphold sovereignty amid evolving regional challenges.
Marcos said this as he led the oath-taking of newly promoted generals and flag officers in Malacañan on Wednesday, Sept. 17.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I call on you to continue to strengthen our presence in the air, on land, and at sea,” he said.
“We must guard the peace we have gained and deepen our ties with partners who also envision a freer, more stable region,” he added.
The President cited the AFP’s role in maintaining stability through joint and multinational exercises such as Balikatan 40, Exercise ALON with Australia, Talisman Sabre, and other engagements with Indo-Pacific partners.
He also praised the military’s efforts in sustaining readiness through training, simulations, and command exercises, which he said improved tactical responsiveness and ensured that the AFP remains prepared to defend the country.
Beyond defense operations, Marcos lauded the AFP for its reliability in humanitarian assistance and disaster response, from typhoons and volcanic eruptions to earthquakes both at home and abroad.
“You have shown our people and the world that the Filipino soldier is always ready to save lives, deliver relief, and rebuild communities,” he said.
Loyalty to Constitution, people
President Marcos reminded the newly promoted officers that their oath is a pledge of loyalty to the Constitution and to the Filipino people.
“Huwag kalimutan: Ang panunumpa ninyo ngayon ay sa Republika at sa bawat Pilipinong nagtitiwala na dahil sa inyo, sila ay mabubuhay nang ligtas at may dangal (Do not forget: Your oath today is to the Republic and to every Filipino who trusts that because of you, they will live safely and with dignity),” he said.
“Today is not only a milestone but a renewed pledge that your loyalty remains with the Constitution and the Filipino people,” he added.
Marcos urged the top brass to act with integrity, uphold the rule of law, and defend democracy while serving as role models for younger soldiers.
“These new stars you’ll carry will demand your utmost discipline, honor, and service,” he said.
Recognizing the sacrifices of the men and women in uniform, President Marcos assured the AFP that his administration would continue providing resources and benefits.
He said these efforts would allow the military to focus on its core duties of protecting sovereignty and strengthening public trust in government institutions.
“These accomplishments underscore the professionalism, the dedication, and the readiness of the Armed Forces,” Marcos said.
“They also strengthen the confidence of our people in your ability to protect our sovereignty and to uphold the values that we hold as a nation,” he added.