00:00Today, we gather to celebrate 128 years of the Philippine Navy at a time when many of our fellow Filipinos
00:09are facing the aftermath of the strong earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao yesterday.
00:17In these critical moments, we witness the enduring commitment of the Philippine Navy to protect and to serve the Filipino
00:26people.
00:26Following the earthquake, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao immediately activated its disaster response mechanisms and placed its rescue team on heightened
00:37alert for emergency response and humanitarian assistance operations.
00:43For over a century, the Philippine Navy has stood watch over our waters, defending our sovereignty and protecting our people.
00:53It continues to do so amidst evolving security challenges that require even greater vigilance.
01:01Strengthening the Philippine Navy's capabilities remains essential to protecting our interests in the West Philippine Sea in light of the
01:10broader realities of our time.
01:12Rapid economic and political developments in the 21st century have reshaped global growth and placed the Indo-Pacific region at
01:22the geopolitical and economic center of gravity.
01:26The seas around us are arenas of competition and of conflict.
01:31Global instability, shifting alliances, and emerging threats demand that we maintain a resilient maritime defense posture.
01:41In this environment, a credible Philippine Navy is indispensable to regional peace.
01:49Thus, I have directed the Philippine Navy to further strengthen its capabilities.
01:55The DND AFP was also tasked to further expand and deepen partnerships, exchanges, and interactions with allies and friendly forces.
02:04Through the modernization of the Navy, we are safeguarding our economic lifelines, protecting our people, and enhancing our ability to
02:15contribute to security and cooperation in our region.
02:19This administration, likewise believes that our greatest asset is our people.
02:27We continue to conduct training courses to ensure that our sailors have the tools, the information, and protection that will
02:34help them carry out their missions effectively.
02:37And today, we witness the fruit of our efforts to modernize this institution.
02:44It is my honor to lead the commissioning of the BRP, Raja Lacandula.
02:50Named after Raja Lacandula, one of the leaders of pre-colonial Manila, this vessel carries forward a legacy of courage,
02:59leadership, and devotion to country.
03:02Truly, truly, this is a pivotal step towards realizing the Navy's vision of a modern and self-reliant force.
03:11This vessel enhances our capacity to safeguard our resources and assert our sovereignty.
03:18To the crew of the ship, may you sail her with pride and let the world know that the Filipino
03:25spirit will never be intimidated.
03:29The dedication and service of the men and women of the Philippine Navy mean that our communities can sleep peacefully
03:36at night.
03:38It means that our fisherfolk can sail further with confidence.
03:42It also means that the global community will see that our country is a credible and formidable anchor of peace
03:50and of international law.
03:51So, I thank you for always keeping our flag flying high, even above the roughest waters.
04:01For your unwavering loyalty in the face of the storm, I say this, bravo Zulu, job well done to you
04:10all.
04:11I also congratulate our exemplary awardees for going the extra nautical mile to serve our country.
04:20May your example inspire others in your ranks to always put your country above all else, especially when the seas
04:29are turbulent.
04:30Sa inyong pagbabantay sa ating karagatan, tangan ninyo hindi lamang ang watawat ng Pilipinas, kundi pati na rin ang tiwala
04:39at pag-asa ng isang bayan ng Pilipino.
04:43As your Commander-in-Chief, I recognize the sacrifices that you and your families make in the service of our
04:50nation.
04:51Be assured that your government remains committed to supporting your welfare and ensuring that you are equipped to carry out
04:59your mission.
05:00Once again, a happy 128th anniversary to you all.
05:06Together, let us continue to weather any crisis and chart a course towards the progressive and sovereign Bagong Pilipinas.
05:16Maraming salamat.
05:18Mabuhay ang hukbong dagat ng Pilipinas.
05:20Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas.
05:37Mabuhay ang hukbong dagat ng Pilipinas.
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