Philippines Fortifies Security Through Empowered Troops
OATH-TAKINGEven as the Philippines confronts “complex and dynamic” challenges, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured the armed forces. . Be assured of the government’s unwavering support, “ Marcos assured the striving to build a stronger, more secure, and more equitable nation for all.
To solidify national security, Marcos presided over the oath-taking ceremony for 37 newly-promoted AFP generals and flag officers at Malacañang Palace in Manila.
The president acknowledged the enduring significance of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for nearly nine decades, recognizing its crucial role as a paid. “The AFP has served as a vital force, protecting our land, people, and freedoms,” Marcos said.
Addressing the Armed Forces, Pointing out the complex challenges facing the country, Marcos emphasized that the AFP must remain steadfast, resourceful, and resolute. These challenges encompass threats to national sovereignty, lawless elements undermining peace, and an increasing frequency of natural disasters, he said.
“We continue to face complex dynamic challenges,” Marcos said, “We continue to face complex and dynamic challenges — threats to our sovereignty, lawless elements that undermine peace, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters. These require us to remain steadfast, resourceful, unyielding in our resolve,”
The President further emphasized the significance of empowering troops to serve communities effectively. “Equally, we must continue to empower our troops to serve our communities better. Train them to respond not only with skill but with empathy — ensuring that their actions reflect the highest ideals of public service, he said. ”
Marcos highlighted the successful completion of the eighth iteration of the AFP Joint Exercise Dagat-Langit-Lupa (DAGIT-PA), asserting its contribution to refining the government forces’ tactics, techniques, and procedures as they address evolving security threats and operationalize the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.
“We must continue to empower our troops to serve our communities better,” Marcos said. “Train them to respond not only with skill but with empathy — ensuring that their actions reflect the highest ideals of public service.”
He urged the AFP officials to prioritize empowering soldiers to effectively serve their communities. “Remember, our soldiers must act with both skill and empathy. Their actions must always reflect the highest ideals of public service.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to support the “New Philippines,” Marcos stressed the need for a unified nation. Every decision and action taken today will help shape the course of our Republic,” Marcos stated. “As our senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, I enjoin you to lead with honor, serve with integrity, stand with your troops, stand for the Constitution, and above all, stand for the Filipino people.”
“By fostering coordination amongst nations, we can safeguard stability while advancing our collective interests. Diplomacy rooted in strong legal foundations is our most effective instrument in navigating these endeavors,” he asserted.
In reaffirming this commitment, Marcos, speaking at Malacañang Palace, where37 newly-promoted chiefs were sworn into office, commented that the Philippine’s archipelago requires protection from assailants.
He urged the AFP officials to remain united and dedicated to safeguarding the nation.
What are the specific threats to Philippine national sovereignty that President Marcos mentioned?
## Strengthening Security: A Conversation with Dr. Maria Santos
**Host:** Welcome back to the program. Today we’re discussing a recent development in Philippine national security. President Marcos Jr. has affirmed the government’s commitment to empowering the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in the face of increasingly complex challenges. Joining me to discuss this is Dr. Maria Santos, a leading security analyst and professor of political science at the University of the Philippines. Dr. Santos, welcome to the show.
**Dr. Santos:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** Let’s start with the recent oath-taking ceremony. 37 generals and flag officers were promoted amidst a speech by President Marcos emphasizing the need for a strong and resolute AFP. What’s the significance of this event?
**Dr. Santos:** This ceremony signifies the government’s recognition of the vital role the AFP plays in protecting national security. Promoting these officers underlines the importance of experienced leadership in navigating the increasingly complex challenges the Philippines faces.
**Host:** President Marcos mentioned “complex and dynamic challenges.” Could you elaborate on what those might be?
**Dr. Santos:** The President highlighted several key challenges. Threats to national sovereignty, lawless elements, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters are all pressing concerns. These issues require a layered approach, combining both military strength and community engagement.
**Host:** The President also stressed the importance of “empowering troops to serve communities better.” What does this mean in practice?
**Dr. Santos:** I believe it signifies a shift towards a more multifaceted approach to security. It’s about training troops not only for combat readiness but also for effective disaster response and community engagement. This fosters trust and cooperation between the military and the civilian population. [[1](https://files01.pna.gov.ph/category-list/2024/12/04/img5452.jpeg) ]
**Host:** Dr. Santos, thank you for your insightful analysis. As the Philippines navigates these challenges, the continuing development of a strong and community-focused AFP will undoubtedly remain crucial.