(Photo courtesy of PNA)
MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday called on 34 newly promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to demonstrate integrity, accountability and effective leadership while maintaining the trust of the Filipino people.
Speaking during their oath-taking ceremony at Malacañang, Marcos emphasized that higher military ranks come with greater responsibilities to safeguard national sovereignty, protect communities and defend the country’s territorial integrity.
“No matter how advanced our capabilities may become, we must never lose sight of the trust and confidence of the Filipino people,” Marcos said.
“Sustaining that trust is a responsibility that all of us share: government, our institutions, and our communities,” he added.
Among those who took their oath was AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Antonio Nafarrete.
The President said the country’s evolving security challenges require military leaders capable of strengthening operational readiness, developing personnel and preparing future generations of officers.
He urged the newly promoted officials to share their knowledge and experience while building a military institution that remains effective beyond their respective terms.
Marcos also highlighted the AFP’s accomplishments in territorial defense, maritime security, internal peace operations and disaster response.
From December 2025 to November 2026, the military conducted more than 2,600 surface patrol missions, primarily covering the Kalayaan Island Group, Batanes and Tawi-Tawi.
These operations were supported by over 250 maritime air patrol missions across the West Philippine Sea and other areas within the country’s maritime jurisdiction.
The AFP also participated in 17 bilateral and 15 multilateral maritime cooperative activities with international partners, including the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, France and India.
Marcos said the activities reflected the Philippines’ continuing efforts to strengthen maritime security and defense cooperation amid regional security challenges.
The government has been advancing the AFP’s external defense capabilities through the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, which aims to improve the military’s ability to protect Philippine territory and maritime interests.
On internal security, Marcos reported that the AFP dismantled one regional party committee and 10 subregional party committees as part of its operations against insurgency and terrorism.
He said these accomplishments contributed to government efforts to promote peace and stability in conflict-affected communities.
The President also recognized the military’s role in disaster response, particularly during the enhanced southwest monsoon and the onslaught of tropical cyclones Luis, Maymay and Neneng.
Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing the AFP with the resources, equipment and institutional support necessary to strengthen its capabilities.
He reminded the newly promoted officers to remain mindful of the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families while ensuring fairness and professionalism in their commands.
“So, share the lessons of your experience. Develop the abilities of those under your command. Build an institution whose strength endures beyond the tenure of any leader,” Marcos said.
