Aquino asks AFP to assist him in ‘last mission’

CLARK AIR BASE, Philippines— “This is my last mission for you,” President Benigno Aquino III said on Monday as he attended the 80th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“Sa susunod na taon, nakaatang sa ating balikat ang tungkuling siguruhing magiging matiwasay at matagumpay ang paparating na halalan,” he told hundreds of military officials attending the event at the Clark Air Base.

(Next year, we will be responsible for ensuring that the upcoming elections will be peaceful and successful.)

He said that that will be their last mission and that as Commander-in-Chief he trusts that the AFP will do the following: “Ang gawin ang tama, makatwiran, at makatarungan para sa ikabubuti ng bayan (Do what is right, reasonable and just for the benefit of the nation).”

Aquino, who will step down as President next year, said this as the AFP showcased its new assets in a colourful display and parade of vehicles and aircraft.

READ: For last time as president, Aquino to lead AFP anniversary rites

The President vowed to double his efforts, during his last months in office, to achieve widespread growth.

He said the last months are crucial because his bosses or the Filipino people expect a lot from him.

“Tunay nga pong napakalaking karangalan para sa akin ang makapaglingkod bilang Commander-in-Chief ng isang Sandatahang Lakas na ‘di nagpapadaig sa anumang hamon at sumasalamin sa pinakamatatayog na ideyal ng lahing Pilipino,” he said.

(It is truly a huge honour for me to serve as Commander-in-Chief of an Armed Forces that never backs down from any challenge and that reflects the highest ideals of the Filipino race.)

He hailed the leadership of the Department of National Defense and the AFP.

“Lahat sila, kilala sa kanilang galing sa pamumuno, propesyonalismo, at katapatan sa pagtupad ng atas. Sa bawat sandaling maaaring magdulot ng kaba at alinlangan, nariyan sila, sumagot sa bawat tanong ko, nagpatupad ng anumang utos ko, at talaga nga naman pong nagsakripisyo para ‘di na tumawid pa sa publiko ang anumang pangamba,” he said.

(They are all known for their leadership, professionalism and truthfulness in doing their jobs. Everytime that there is a situation which may lead to anxiety, they are there, heeding to my every call and enacting my orders, and they are really making this sacrifice so that the people may no longer be worried.)

Aquino also thanked the troops for ensuring the safety of the public during the visit of Pope Francis earlier this year and for serving survivors of calamities.

He especially highlighted the role of the Marines in protecting Philippine territory in the disputed areas of the West Philippine Sea.

Aquino enumerated the benefits accorded to soldiers during his term, including housing projects, increased subsistence allowance and enhanced PhilHealth.

Before his speech, awards and medals were given to 19 military officers who led encounters against insurgents, played important roles in ensuring peace and order and facilitated humanitarian operations. IDL