Speech by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the Oath-Taking Ceremony of the Newly Promoted Generals and Flag Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)

Good morning.

First of all, allow me to greet our National Defense Secretary, Secretary Gilbert Teodoro; the other members of Cabinet here present; the Chief of Staff of the AFP, General Romeo Brawner and the major service commanders; of course, the newly promoted officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines; and equally importantly, their families; fellow workers in government; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen, good morning.

I am always filled with pride whenever I stand before the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Today, you just took your oath as newly promoted generals and flag officers to bear greater responsibility to the Filipino people and to the State.

This year, the AFP has yet again demonstrated its reliability in humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations, from typhoons and volcanic eruptions to earthquakes here at home, even in Myanmar.

You have shown our people and the world that the Filipino soldier is always ready to save lives, deliver relief, and rebuild communities.

You have also further strengthened our international defense posture through joint and multinational exercises, such as Balikatan 40, Exercise ALON with Australia, Talisman Sabre, and engagements with partners across the Indo-Pacific.

Moreover, you have continued to sustain readiness through training, simulations, and command exercises. These have improved tactical responsiveness, ensuring that the AFP remains prepared to defend our country.

These accomplishments underscore the professionalism, the dedication, and the readiness of the Armed Forces. They also strengthen the confidence of our people in your ability to protect our sovereignty and to uphold the values that we hold as a nation.

You have achieved much this year, so this promotion is well-deserved.

Now that you have taken your oaths, remember, set an example for the young men and women who will look to you for your leadership.

These new stars you’ll carry will demand your utmost discipline, honor, and service.

And as your Commander-in-Chief, I call on you to continue to strengthen our presence in the air, on land, and at sea.

We must guard the peace we have gained and deepen our ties with partners who also envision a freer, more stable region.

I know the sacrifices you have made in serving this great nation. Rest assured this Administration will do the best we can to provide you with the resources and benefits so that you can focus on your duty.

Huwag kalimutan: Ang panunumpa ninyo ngayon ay sa Republika at sa bawat Pilipinong nagtitiwala na, dahil sa inyo, sila ay mabubuhay nang ligtas at may dangal.

Today is not only a milestone but a renewed pledge that your loyalty remains with the Constitution and the Filipino people.

Always act with integrity, uphold the rule of law, defend our democracy.

Congratulations to all of you.

Maraming, maraming salamat at mabuhay ang Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas.

Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas.

Maraming salamat. Magandang umaga sa inyong lahat.

[applause]

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