89th Anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (Speech) 12/20/2024

Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City
December 20, 2024

“We go beyond celebrating the strength of your arms or victories that you have won. We are honoring the ideals that you embody… These ideals are etched into the fabric of the AFP, making you not only guardians of our nation but also beacons of hope and pride for Filipinos,” stated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as he led the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in commemorating its 89th Founding Anniversary.

Anchored in the theme ‘Sandigan ng Sambayanan Tungo Sa Bagong Pilipinas,’ the AFP celebrated nearly nine (9) decades of service to the country, protecting the Filipino people, upholding democracy and responding to the call of duty amidst challenging times.

“In recent years, you have shown us what it means to adapt, to evolve, to persevere in the face of change. You have become an agile and responsive force, attuned to the shifting demands of our security landscape. And this is no small feat,” emphasized the President.

He urged the AFP to continuously uphold integrity and honor as the Administration reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to ensuring that the AFP is fully prepared for the years to come. This includes the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Program, which aims to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign sources and empower the AFP to develop its own capabilities.

“To enhance our capabilities and preparedness, we are harnessing the latest technologies, reinforcing our strategies, and enhancing the skills of every soldier, every sailor, every airman. This ensures that we are ready to succeed in the battles on the field, in cyberspace, for the peace of mind of our people,” the President stated.

“After all, we are building an AFP that can hold its own on the global stage — one that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest armed forces,” he added.

The Commander-in-Chief urged the AFP to continue embodying the Filipino spirit by standing firm against oppression, adapting to the demands of the times and prioritizing the welfare of the entire nation above all.

“We look to the AFP as defenders of our nation, as examples of courage and integrity. We rely on you to set the standard for patriotism in action — soldiers who serve not for glory, but for the enduring promise of a better nation,” the President conveyed.

Marking this year’s celebration, President Marcos Jr. recognized and awarded exemplary personnel and units of the AFP. He also led the re-launch of the AFP Museum, which is vital for preserving the history of the Armed Forces.

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