00:00Today, we once again commemorate the founding anniversary of the Philippine Army, the 129th
00:07anniversary. I stand with deep respect for the brave women and men who have dedicated
00:13their lives in service to our nation. For over a century, the Philippine Army has stood as a
00:20pillar of strength, guiding our country towards peace, security, and shared progress. Through
00:27every challenge, you have embodied the strength and courage that inspire our people to move
00:33forward with confidence and purpose. As you continue to advance the capabilities of the
00:39armed forces, a clear task lies before us. The Philippine Army must continue to build on
00:46the significant gains that we have achieved in internal security and work with law enforcement
00:52agencies to address emerging threats. The demands of our time call for a force that is agile,
00:59effective, and prepared to safeguard our nation across new and evolving domains, from our
01:06maritime frontiers to the digital space. To meet this challenge, this administration remains
01:13steadfast in modernizing the armed forces of the Philippines while advancing meaningful peace-building
01:20initiatives at the grassroots. These are anchored in dialogue, trust, and the shared vision of
01:27inclusive progress. At present, the DND and the AFP are monitoring developments on the ground to ensure
01:35that we sustain our progress in addressing internal security threats. In parallel, the DND-AFP and the National
01:44Task Force to end local communist armed conflict continue to strengthen stability in communities,
01:50paving the way for a more effective and orderly transition. Our commitment to national defense remains
01:59firm. We are strengthening the Philippine Army's role in external defense through the comprehensive
02:06archipelagic defense concept. This concept enables the Army to perform external security operations while
02:15gradually transitioning its internal security operations. The combined arms training exercise,
02:22KATIHAN, is also conducted annually to test and to refine the Philippine Army's land defense concept. Through the
02:31integration of infantry, armor, and artillery, we enhance rapid deployment and reinforce maritime defense.
02:39We also invest in capacity building through interagency exercises among the AFP, the PNP,
02:46Philippine Coast Guard, and this we have been doing since 2025. These efforts deepen coordination and readiness
02:55across all our institutions. At the community level, the NTF-ELCAC Barangay Development Plan is designed to support
03:05development initiatives in barangays, contributing to efforts towards safer, more resilient communities,
03:12as well as lasting peace. Your achievements complement our efforts to serve our people better.
03:20You earned recognition from the Anti-Red Tape Authority's Report Card Survey Awards 2.0, and that is you are
03:28the only
03:28uniformed service to be honored last year. Also, you have received the Bronze Award from the Civil Service
03:36Commission for advancing meritocracy and excellence in human resource management. These milestones speak to your
03:44professionalism, integrity, and dedication to fair and effective leadership. Beyond these recognitions,
03:52your partnership with government agencies continue to advance our self-reliant defense posture program.
04:00In collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, you have participated in the development
04:05of the Control-Operated Battle Ready Armament Project, or COBRA. This is a strong step towards innovation and
04:14the growth of our local defense industry. To carry this momentum, I encourage the Army to exemplify integrity,
04:23discipline, professionalism, as these are the bedrocks of your institution. You have earned the trust of the
04:31Filipino people through your steadfast service. Every day offers an opportunity to deepen and uphold that
04:40trust. Let this day renew your commitment to sharpening your capabilities, broadening your experience, and
04:49raising the standard of service. A forward-looking Philippine Army stands firm in defense while remaining
04:56compassionate in being compassionate in the fulfillment of your duty.
05:00To our awardees, my congratulations. Continue to uphold excellence and inspire your fellow soldiers.
05:20Together, let us build a bagong Pilipinas where communities thrive in safety, where opportunities are shared,
05:29and where every citizen stands secure in the promise of our nation.
05:35Thank you very much.
05:37For the life of the Sandatahang Lakas of the Pilipinas and the Hukbong Katihan of the Pilipinas,
05:42for the life of the new Pilipinas.
05:44Thank you very much.
05:57Thank you very much.
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