By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. challenged 34 newly promoted Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) generals and flag officers to prove their leadership through integrity, accountability and an unwavering commitment to national defense.
During Tuesday’s oath-taking ceremony at Malacañang, Marcos stressed that military promotions carry a greater responsibility to protect the Filipino people, defend national sovereignty and safeguard the country’s territorial integrity.
Among those who took their oath was AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Antonio Nafarrete.
The President cited the military’s expanding operations, including more than 2,600 surface patrol missions and over 250 maritime air patrol missions from December 2025 to November 2026, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
He also highlighted the AFP’s maritime cooperation activities with the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, France and India.
Marcos reminded the new generals that modern weapons and military capabilities mean little without the confidence of the Filipino people.
He urged them to develop future military leaders and build an institution whose strength and integrity will endure beyond their respective terms.
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