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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos: We extend friendship to all, but we will never abandon our national dignity

Marcos: We extend friendship to all, but we will never abandon our national dignity

Published Jul 21, 2026 05:03 pm
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Change of Command Ceremony at the Lapu-Lapu Grandstand, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, on July 21, 2026. Marcos appointed Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete as the 61st Chief of Staff of the AFP, succeeding retiring General Romeo Brawner Jr. (Santi San Juan)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. leads the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Change of Command Ceremony at the Lapu-Lapu Grandstand, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, on July 21, 2026. Marcos appointed Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete as the 61st Chief of Staff of the AFP, succeeding retiring General Romeo Brawner Jr. (Santi San Juan)
In installing a new chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), President Marcos stressed that while the country seeks cooperation and extends friendship to its counterparts, it will never abandon its national dignity.
In his speech during the AFP change of command to Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete and the retirement ceremony of Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., the President reiterated that the Philippines will always remain "a nation that seeks peace."
The Philippines, he said, adheres to international law and "a respectful nation that conducts itself with dignity, restraint, and professionalism."
"We seek cooperation, but we will never compromise our sovereignty. We extend friendship to all, but we will never abandon our national dignity," he stressed.
"That has always been the Filipino way. And that will always be our course," he added.
The Commander-in-chief underscored that while the command changes hands, "the mission remains and the duty to defend our flag never ends."
Marcos told Nafarrete to safeguard the people and defend every inch of the country's land and waters during his leadership.
"The command entrusted to you is great, but the purpose is even greater: to safeguard our people, defend every inch of our land and waters, and secure the future of our Republic," Marcos said.
"As we strengthen our defenses, we remain guided by the principle that our ultimate objective is to preserve peace, stability, and prosperity for our people," he added.
The President also told the new AFP chief that his task is "to build upon" the force that was made stronger by those who came before him.
He expressed confidence that his previous leadership assignments have given him the wisdom and experience needed to lead the AFP.
The President assured him that the administration will continue to invest in the capabilities, readiness, and welfare of the AFP.
In his speech, Marcos commended Brawner's leadership, saying the AFP during his time "intensified its internal security operations, dismantling communist terrorist guerrilla fronts and significantly reducing the forces of local terrorist groups."
"The Armed Forces sustained a steadfast presence in the West Philippine Sea through maritime and air patrols, asserting our sovereignty and sovereign rights," Marcos said.
"The AFP also strengthened cooperation with allies and partners, enhanced interoperability through joint exercises, and advanced strategic communications to counter misinformation," Marcos added.

Related Tags

President Marcos AFP Romeo Brawner Jr. Antonio Nafarette
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