(FILE) Members of the Marine Battalion Landing-8 attend a send-off ceremony for their tour-of-duty in Sulu province. PHOTO FROM PHILIPPINE MARINES
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday committed his support to the modernization program of the Philippine Marine Corps.
He made the pledge during the 72nd founding anniversary ceremony of the Philippine Marine Corps in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
“Let me assure you that the government remains firm and committed to enhancing the Marine Corps by means of the AFP modernization.We will use the resources to provide each of you the support that will help you fulfill your responsibilities, realize your full potential, and to achieve success in your mission,” the President said.
The President also vowed his full support for the continued success of the country’s military forces, as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
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The President also recounted the time he became part of the Marines, saying he learned camaraderie and brotherhood during his stint at the Marine Corps.
“It was a very pleasant surprise to relive the time that I spent with the Marines and it was really the beginning of my time in the military and it is a time that I found that I was a little intimidated to go… mahirap itong mga Marines, masyadong… they are tough,” he said.
“Again ‘yung sinabi ko doon sa interview, the Marines taught me that even if you think, you cannot manage it, if you dig deep, you will be able to. That is just one of the many many lessons I learned when I spent time with the Philippine Marines Corps and in the military… The other invaluable lesson is the lesson of camaraderie which I have not found anywhere else outside of the military… that form of camaraderie and brotherhood… that is formed between people who live together, who would fight together, who bleed together, it’s a different kind of camaraderie, a different form of brotherhood,” the President added.
He then then commended the Marines’ efforts for its numerous accomplishments, especially in securing and fostering peace and security in the country.
“It began when you fought the communist armed rebellion in the 1950s. You have also defended the nation from terrorist and separatist groups in the succeeding years,” he said.
He likewise lauded the Marines for always securing the safety of the people in times of disasters and emergencies.
“Despite the challenges that you have endured and surpassed, you still proved to be courageous and resilient in helping our countrymen in times of emergencies and calamities,” Marcos said.
“I thank you all for always being true Marines and going above and beyond. Your bravery has greatly enabled the Filipinos in contributing to the nation-building efforts. And the nation-building efforts of this administration, we count once again on that support from the Marine Corps,” he added.
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The President then urged the Marines to continue to demonstrate exemplary service and nationalism hoping that they may pass on their virtues to the next generation of Marines.
“We will work harmoniously towards our collective goal of serving the Filipino people, asserting our sovereignty, as well as defending the country’s territorial integrity,” the President said.
“I am confident that with you, we will be able to protect the Republic of the Philippines from all threats, sustain our identity, and promote our national interests for the benefit of all,” he added.