PPRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to meet public expectations by ensuring peaceful, credible, and orderly elections on May 12.
“Once again we find ourselves at a critical juncture where we have to preserve not only the integrity of our election, but the very ethos of our democracy” President Marcos said during the Oath-taking ceremony of the newly promoted Generals and Flag Officers of the AFP and Foreign Pre-Commission Training Institutions (FPCTI) Graduates in Malacañang.
“As a nation that deeply values and honors our right to vote, we are counting on the armed forces to ensure a peaceful, credible, and orderly conduct of the electoral process that the Filipinos expect from us. We cannot fail them,” he said.
The President noted that the AFP reaffirmed its commitment during the Solidarity Pact Signing for the 2025 National and Local Elections to uphold the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He asked the newly-promoted military officials and training graduates to be “shining examples of how a Bagong Pilipino” should be: disciplined, patriotic, and committed to the greater good for the most significant number.
The Chief Executive assured them that his administration supports peace, democracy, and the rule of law.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I offer you my salute and express my utmost appreciation to all your selfless sacrifices and services, not only to get to this point but all through the years of your duty,” the President said.
He said that his appreciation also extends to the families of soldiers who have made significant sacrifices to support their careers.
The President also told the military leaders that leadership inspires individuals to view every challenge as an opportunity.
“And in the toughest of times, leaders are those who have the ability to transform challenges into victories,” he said.
A total of 35 AFP generals and flag officers have been promoted, while nine military personnel from the FPCTI graduated from the training course.
The President said that each of them has already had their fair share of challenges in protecting the people and the nation.
“You persevered in improving our country’s security, you have pursued reforms to better your organization, and you have taken steps to enhance your capabilities. This day is dedicated to those achievements,” the President said.
He said that the courage, dedication, and patriotism of those who have taken the mantle of leadership in the AFP deserve the highest recognition and admiration from the proud and grateful nation.
He said that this milestone in military officers’ careers reflects their hard work, commitment, and dedication to fulfilling their sworn duties as protectors of national security.
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