Marcos to AFP generals: More challenges ahead amid changing global security

More challenges are expected for the country’s military force given the changing dynamics of the global security aspect, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said Monday.

Marcos said this during the oathtaking of the newly-promoted Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) generals and flag officers at the Ceremonial Hall of the Malacañang Palace.

“This is a new era for the AFP, one that now look outward while also building the gains that we have made internally. With the ever changing dynamics of geopolitics and the global security environment, more challenges will undoubtedly lie ahead,” Marcos said in his message.

“But cognizant of these circumstances, the AFP must always emerge effective, formidable and responsible as you have always done in order that our country’s integrity and interests are defended and are preserved,” he added.

The President said with the collective toil of the military officers while rising through their ranks “not only has secured our country and our people it has also laid the foundations that allow us now to build for tomorrow.”

“Your ascent to this high position is a testament to the capabilities and proof of your mettle in the most perilous yet unparalleled profession,” Marcos said.

He, however, reminded them that with the challenge of nation building and national security, their hard work must not cease.

“Our nation and the citizenry shall exact and expect from you a heavier responsibility and a more demanding kind of public service that of exemplary leadership and a clear vision for our armed forces,” Marcos said.

He said these military men would be tasked to efficiently manage the organization and its assets and maintain its effectivity and resilience.

They will also lead and mobilize the nation’s new generation of guardians and future leaders and instill in them the virtues of discipline, valor and patriotic public service that has brought you to this day today, said Marcos.

“High level of security intelligence and analysis will be expected to fully apprise the commander-in-chief and strategically guide our planning and all of our decision-making,” Marcos said.

Marcos then vowed that he would stand behind and support the government troops in their endeavors.

“I will ensure that the strength of the organization and the wellbeing of its personnel are attended to,” Marcos said. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News