President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated his unwavering stance to protect Philippine territory from any foreign encroachment during the 88th anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) held at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City. In his address, he emphasized the crucial role of the military in upholding the country’s rights in accordance with the Philippine Constitution and international law.
Amidst the geopolitical tensions that the Philippines finds itself in, President Marcos Jr. commended the AFP for remaining a force of reason and exemplifying dignified behavior in resolving issues. He acknowledged the recent incident involving the AFP Chief of Staff, General Romeo Brawner, and members of the media, who were subjected to a water cannon attack and shadowed by the China Coast Guard while on a supply mission to Ayungin Shoal.
“The recent incident involving our AFP chief of staff is worrisome, but it is a proud demonstration of Filipino courage against coercion and upholding territorial integrity,” President Marcos Jr. stated. He expressed confidence in the soldiers and troops, affirming their unwavering commitment to the same values and principles, undeterred by actions that escalate tensions.
President Marcos Jr. emphasized the need for the AFP to continuously enhance its readiness to address present and emerging threats. This commitment was reinforced by the signing of the P5.768-trillion national budget for 2024, which allocated P11.28 billion to the AFP, the Department of National Defense, and the Philippine Coast Guard.
Furthermore, the President encouraged the military to strengthen existing alliances and partnerships with foreign counterparts to maintain peace and order in the region. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., in an interview, highlighted the significance of joint patrols with foreign navies as a demonstration of the Philippines’ determination to establish a free and rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
Teodoro mentioned that countries such as France, the United States, Canada, India, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Japan are planning maritime patrols with the Philippines to express their opposition to China’s incursions in the West Philippine Sea. He emphasized that no country has condemned the Philippines for standing up for its sovereign rights, and it is crucial to protest against China’s intrusions to prevent acceptance of their version of events.
China has employed tactics such as swarming, area denial, and harassment to exert pressure on the Philippines and coerce them into acceding to their demands. President Marcos Jr. and Defense Secretary Teodoro are determined to counter these tactics and protect Philippine sovereignty.
During the AFP anniversary commemoration, President Marcos Jr. also recognized the Medal of Valor awardees for their exceptional bravery. To provide additional support, the government pledged to increase the lifetime monthly gratuity for the awardees as an added incentive for their extraordinary service.
President Marcos Jr.’s reaffirmation of the Philippines’ commitment to protecting its territory and the commendation of the AFP’s dedication serve as a testament to the country’s unwavering resolve in upholding its rights. The continuous strengthening of alliances and partnerships with foreign counterparts, along with the allocation of resources to enhance military readiness, reflects the government’s proactive approach in maintaining peace and order in the region.
Source: The Manila Times
