President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday has called the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to continue safeguarding the country’s sovereign rights amid growing security challenges in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
Speaking before the 638 graduates of the Major Services Officer Candidate Course at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Marcos urged the newly commissioned officers to remain vigilant amid escalating regional tensions in the WPS.
“We must continue to defend our rights in the West Philippine Sea, where our fishermen and our soldiers stand their ground amidst growing challenges. We will stay vigilant against any attempt to weaken our sovereignty or test our resolve,” he said.
The Chief Executive noted that the global shifts and emerging threats have increased the demands on the AFP, and stressed the need for a new generation of officers capable of “thinking fast” and “acting smart.”
He reiterated the AFP’s critical role in national security and disaster response, and reminded the new officers; that their mission remains vital. “The world is changing fast and these changes can create new risks for our country… This is why your training will matter even more,” he stressed, adding that “ulltimately, it will be about maintaining peace and building a nation.” he added.
The new graduates of the Philippine Air Force Kahimdaliyan Class 2025, Philippine Navy Sagmaraya Class 2025, and Philippine Army Bumannawag Class 2025, completed their intensive one-year training program that prepares them for their commissioned ranks — Second Lieutenants in the PAF and Ensigns in the Navy.
Marcos reaffirmed the government’s commitment to AFP modernization, citing ongoing investments in equipment, platforms and defense partnerships with Japan, the United States, Australia and a few others.
He awarded the top graduates from the major service classes and presented diplomas to them during the rites.