Fort bonifacio: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday called on the Philippine Army (PA) to continue strengthening its defense capabilities and advancing peace-building initiatives.
According to Philippines News Agency, during the PA's 129th founding anniversary celebration at its headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Marcos recognized the Army's vital role as a 'pillar of strength,' guiding the country towards peace, security, and shared progress.
Marcos emphasized the importance of building on gains in internal security and collaborating with law enforcement agencies to address emerging threats. He highlighted the need for an agile and effective force prepared to safeguard the nation across various domains, including maritime frontiers and the digital space.
Marcos reaffirmed his administration's commitment to modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines while promoting grassroots peace-building initiatives anchored in dialogue and trust. He cited the Barangay Development Program of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) as a significant initiative contributing to community stability and lasting peace.
Highlighting the Army's external defense role, Marcos mentioned the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, which enables troops to perform external security operations while transitioning internal security operations. He also praised the Combined Arms Training Exercise 'Katihan' for enhancing rapid deployment and maritime defense.
Marcos acknowledged the Army's achievements in governance and human resource management, noting its recognition in the Anti-Red Tape Authority's Report Card Survey Awards 2.0 and the Civil Service Commission's Bronze for advancing meritocracy and excellence.
He underscored the Army's contribution to the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Program, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, including the development of the Control-Operated Battle-Ready Armament Project. This initiative is seen as a significant step towards fostering local defense industry innovation.
Marcos encouraged the Philippine Army to exemplify integrity, discipline, and professionalism, emphasizing their role as the bedrock of the institution. He urged them to use every opportunity to deepen and uphold the trust of the Filipino people through steadfast service.
The event, themed 'Ang Inyong Matatag na Hukbong Katihan,' highlighted the Army's crucial role in safeguarding national security, supporting nation-building efforts, and enhancing disaster response capabilities. This year's celebration showcased modernization initiatives and improved training to strengthen the PA's readiness and professionalism.
