The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the importance of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) modernization program in addressing cybercrime and other evolving national security threats during the AFP’s 89th founding anniversary celebration at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Friday.
In his speech, Marcos praised the AFP’s agility and adaptability to modern security challenges.
“You have become an agile and responsive force, attuned to the shifting demands of our security landscape. And this is no small feat,” he said.
The President identified cybercrime as a pressing concern, describing it as “complex and multifaceted.”
“For the threats we face today are no longer confined to our shores or to the traditional battlefield. They are now complex, multifaceted, and, at times, invisible,” he said.
Marcos highlighted geopolitical tensions and the rise in cybersecurity threats as significant challenges, warning that these issues could undermine national
security if left unchecked.
He also called attention to the dangers of misinformation and disinformation, which he said erode democratic values.
“The pervasive force of misinformation and disinformation undermines the values we hold dear, threatening the democracy we have fought so hard to protect,” Marcos said.
Despite these challenges, the President commended the AFP for its steadfastness and commitment to peace, progress, and national resilience.
“You have shown that you are a force for peace, progress, and solidarity—a partner in building a stronger, more resilient Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines),” he said.
Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to equipping the AFP for the challenges ahead through the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Program, which aims to reduce dependence on foreign sources and bolster local defense capabilities.
“But modernization is not simply about acquiring advanced equipment; it is about transforming the way we think, the way we act, and the way we operate as a unified force,” he said.
The President emphasized the importance of leveraging technology, refining strategies, and enhancing personnel skills to elevate the AFP’s standing on the global stage.
“After all, we are building an AFP that can hold its own on the global stage—one that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest armed forces,” he added.
During the ceremony, Marcos honored First Lieutenant Dhell Jun Evangelista with the “Medalya ng Kagitingan” for his exceptional service and sacrifice.
“Sa kabila ng kanyang batang edad, labis ang sakripisyo at paglilingkod na kanyang ipinamalas upang masiguro ang seguridad ng ating bansa. Maraming salamat sa iyong paglilingkod sa sambayanan at sa lahat ng Pilipino. Ang iyong alaala ay habambuhay nang nakaukit sa kasaysayan ng AFP,” he said.
The President encouraged the AFP to continue embodying its core values of honor, service, and patriotism while assuring the government’s unwavering support for its modernization and welfare programs.
“We are building a stronger, more resilient Bagong Pilipinas together,” he said.
Marcos urged the AFP to maintain honor during adversity, demonstrate compassion during crises, and inspire with humanity.
“Let the AFP emerge as the embodiment of the Filipino spirit – a spirit that stands firm against oppression, adapts to the demands of the time, and always places the welfare of the nation above all else,” he said.
The President concluded by acknowledging the AFP’s enduring contributions as protectors of the nation and upholders of democracy, earning the respect and admiration of the Filipino people for their unwavering service and sacrifice.
“Today, we go beyond celebrating the strength of your arms or the victories you have won. We are honoring the ideals you embody— the ideals of honor, service, patriotism,” he said.