First Couple lauds PSC's role in protecting nation's stability on 128th anniversary
At A Glance
- President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos thanked members of the Presidential Security Command (PSC) for their service and sacrifices during the unit's 128th anniversary celebration.
- The President said he had never felt anything but safe under the protection of the PSC since assuming office in 2022.
- Marcos said the PSC's role goes beyond protecting the First Family, saying it also safeguards the stability of the Republic.
President Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos paid tribute to the men and women of the Presidential Security Command (PSC), recognizing their role in protecting not only the First Family but also the stability of the country.
Speaking during the PSC's 128th anniversary celebration at Malacañang Park on June 26, the President expressed his gratitude to members of the command for their service and dedication.
"I can say that not once, from the first day that I stepped into Malacañang, have I felt anything but safe in your hands," Marcos told the troops.
The President said the PSC's mission extends far beyond ensuring the physical security of the First Family.
"You are not only protecting the physical being of the First Family—you are protecting the stability of the Republic. And that is how important your job is," he said.
First Lady’s role
The President also acknowledged the First Lady's efforts to improve the living conditions and facilities of PSC personnel.
Marcos recalled that one of the first things the First Lady brought to his attention upon assuming office was a plan to upgrade the command's barracks and facilities.
"I asked for assistance from the First Lady. The first time she came to me, may mga plano siya. Pinakita niya: ito yung gagawin natin sa mga barracks, ito yung mga gagawin natin dito, magtatayo tayo ng ganito (She already had plans. She showed me what we would do with the barracks and the facilities and what structures would be built),” he said.
"Kaya napakaganda ngayon ang facilities niyo (That is why your facilities are now much better). So we have to thank the First Lady for that," he added.
'People quietly standing guard'
In a separate message posted on his social media accounts, Marcos said many responsibilities of the Presidency are possible only because of the people who quietly stand guard behind the scenes.
"May mga tungkuling nagagawa lamang dahil may mga taong tahimik na nagbabantay (Some responsibilities can only be fulfilled because there are people quietly standing guard),” he said.
The President thanked members of the PSC and their families for the sacrifices they continue to make in service to the nation.
"Sa loob ng 128 taon, ang Presidential Security Command ay patuloy na nagsisilbing sandigan ng seguridad ng Panguluhan at ng Republika (For 128 years, the Presidential Security Command has continued to serve as a pillar of security for the Presidency and the Republic),” he said.
First Lady thanks PSC families
For her part, the First Lady expressed appreciation not only to PSC personnel but also to their families.
"From our family to yours, thank you for your service," she said in a Facebook post following the celebration.
The First Lady said PSC members carry the responsibility of protecting the Presidency and serving the Filipino people with courage and honor every day.
"Please know that your service, your sacrifices, and your steadfast commitment to our nation are deeply appreciated," she said.
The PSC traces its historical origins to the security units formed during the administration of former president Emilio Aguinaldo in 1898. Formerly known as the Presidential Security Group (PSG), the unit was expanded and reorganized into the Presidential Security Command in early 2024 to strengthen security operations and coordination within the Office of the President.
Today, the PSC, led by Rear Admiral Andro Val Abayon, is tasked with providing security for incumbent and former presidents, the Vice President, their immediate families, and visiting heads of state and government.