Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 21) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday welcomed the new graduates of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), promising that he would work closely with them as they face “true battles” and daunting challenges amid a “rapidly evolving security environment.”
“We behold the PMA Class of 2023, ang mga mandirigmang may dangal, simbolo ng galing at pagbabangon [fighters who have honor, and are symbols of excellence and resilience], hence, Madasigon,” Marcos said in his keynote speech during the graduation rites held in Fort del Pilar, Baguio City.
It was his first attendance at a PMA commencement exercise.
You have been trained now to be prepared for the daunting challenges that await outside this fabled fort,” the president added. “You now continue your lifelong commitment to the nation. The true battles will now begin.Marcos, who is the commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), said the 310-strong PMA batch will “augment the capabilities of our armed forces,” stressing that they join the ranks of “our brave and selfless soldiers and dedicate their lives to the cause of defending our republic.The chief executive reminded the new military officers to “continue to fuel your undying commitment to genuine love of country and public service.In all your tasks, diligently work for unity, respect for democratic ideals, institutions and mechanisms and the rule of law,” he added.
Current situation
Existing realities in the rapidly evolving security environment impel us to be always prepared for any and all threats that our country may face,” Marcos said of the current security situation amid threats to the “peaceful aspirations” of the country, such as criminality, insurgency, and terrorism.
But Marcos vowed his close relationship with the new military personnel, whom he said he would count on to help in leading “our nation towards the progressive and prosperous future that we all aspire for.”
As your commander-in-chief, I will closely work with all of you, the future leaders of our armed forces, in our collective public service in building a stronger, more resilient republic,” the president said.As you encounter challenges along the way, apply the hard-won lessons that you have learned while in the halls of the academy, clinging to the values of courage, integrity and patriotism. That way, you will never lose your way,” he advised the graduates.Marcos also mentioned during his speech efforts to bolster the country’s defense such as pursuing the AFP modernization program and improving the social protection of the country’s military and uniformed personnel (MUP).Talks of pension reform may apply to new MUP entrants, as economic managers warn that the current system is not sustainable and could lead to the country’s “fiscal collapse.”
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He also cited the law he recently signed to amend Republic Act 11709 which prescribed fixed terms for key military positions, to further strengthen the professionalization and merit systems in the AFP.
Because of this, you now join a modern and professional organization which is now more effective and even more formidable vehicle for public service and nation building and a continuing source of pride and self-fulfillment for the individual personnel,” he said.
