Bongbong Marcos graces AFP’s 88th anniversary rites
FILE PHOTO: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (Photo by WILLY KURNIAWAN / POOL / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. graced the commemoration of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) 88th anniversary on Thursday, Dec 21.
Two FA-50 jets conducted a flypast to mark the beginning of the program, followed by a parade of a division-size troops that included the three main service branches of the AFP – Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, and Philippine Navy – and featured the military’s newly-acquired assets which served as the highlight of the event.
READ: AFP Medal of Valor awardees to get higher monthly gratuity, says Marcos
Army tanks and naval helicopters were likewise featured for the static display.
During his speech, Marcos acknowledged the contributions and sacrifices of AFP personnel, noting that their role has become more prominent due to external threats.
“As you continue to play a vital role in the government’s various initiatives, it is my fervent hope that your institution will remain relentless in countering lawless elements that intend to sow fear and distrust amongst our people,” he said.
“You have become crucial as in the past years, the Philippines has found itself in the middle of geopolitical developments and tensions that could potentially cause regional insecurity or endanger people’s lives and livelihoods,” he added.
READ: Insurgency ending but external threats rising, says Marcos as AFP told to adjust strategy
Marcos also lauded the AFP for remaining a “force and a voice of reason” in resolving issues in accordance with international law.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. along with ranking AFP and Department of National Defense officials also attended the celebration.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo were likewise in the event.
Earlier in the morning, a simultaneous interfaith prayer service and Thanksgiving Mass was held, followed by the simultaneous flag-raising and an awarding ceremony for valued stakeholders and partners of the military.
The AFP was established on December 21, 1935 under the National Defense Act of 1935.
