Pres. Ferdinand Marcos Jr – Screen grabbed from RTVM livestream/ Facebook (Dec. 18. 2025)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday reminded newly promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), as well as graduates of Foreign Pre-Commissioned Training Institutions (FPCTI), to respect the Constitution and remain loyal to the Republic.
He made the remarks during their oath-taking ceremony at Malacañang Palace.
“We are reminded today that this oath-taking is a reaffirmation of a sacred trust: respect for the Constitution, service to the Filipino people, and loyalty to the Republic,” Marcos said in his speech.
“As you open another chapter, you also accept greater responsibility to lead with wisdom, restraint, and moral clarity,” the President added.
Marcos also encouraged them “to lead with integrity, to serve with humility, and, if necessary, to fight for the Republic with honor and courage.”
The President further reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to modernizing the AFP through training, international cooperation, and enhanced operational capability.
He highlighted the recent increases in base pay and daily subsistence allowances for military and uniformed personnel as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance their welfare.
“All these reflect our principle that honoring service means ensuring that those who serve are given the support and dignity that they rightfully deserve,” Marcos said.
“May you always wear the stars on your shoulders as daily reminders of your duty to lead with integrity, to serve with humility, and, if necessary, [to] fight for the Republic with honor and with courage,” he added.
During the event, a total of 42 oath-takers from the Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, and Philippine Navy—including FPCTI graduates—were sworn in by the AFP Commander-in-Chief.