Marcos Jr. to generals: Respect Charter, remain loyal to country

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday reminded the Armed Forces of the Philippines to remain loyal to the Constitution and the republic as he administered the oath of newly promoted AFP generals and flag officers as well as graduates of foreign pre-commissioned training institutions.

Speaking during the oath-taking ceremony at Malacañang, Marcos said the event served as a “powerful affirmation” that the public servants’ loyalty is anchored on the Constitution, democratic institutions and the people.

“We are reminded today that this oath-taking is a reaffirmation of a sacred trust: the respect for the Constitution, service to the Filipino people and loyalty to the republic,” Marcos, also the military commander-in-chief, said.

The President said the new chapter in the soldiers’ career entails a “greater responsibility to lead with wisdom, restraint and moral clarity.”

“Your promotion reflects the nation’s confidence in your integrity and professionalism, your dedication to duty. The stars you bear shine more brightly today – as constant reminders of your obligations to protect our sovereignty, to uphold national security and safeguard the freedoms of every Filipino,” he said.

“May you always wear the stars on your shoulders as daily reminders of your duty to lead with integrity, to serve with humility, and, if necessary, fight for the Republic with honor and with courage.”

Marcos reiterated his support for the military’s modernization efforts and urged the newly promoted officers to continue to serve the Filipino people, protect Philippine sovereignty and help build a stronger and more secure country.

Forty-two oath takers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ major services were sworn in during the ceremony, which came as the country is confronted with political issues emanating from the multibillion-peso flood control mess.

Rumors of anti-government destabilization plots surfaced after investigations uncovered schemes that allegedly allowed corrupt officials and contractors to earn billions in kickbacks from substandard and non-existent flood mitigation projects.

The AFP has described as “malicious” claims about alleged plans to oust Marcos or launch destabilization efforts and has given an assurance that its troops remain united and loyal to the chain of command.

Marcos made a similar appeal when he administered the oath of newly promoted military officers last September. During the event, the President called on the soldiers to “act with integrity, uphold the rule of law” and defend democracy.

Gibo hails Army 10th ID’s peace, security efforts

Officers and personnel of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division have assured Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro of their commitment to the government’s Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Operations (CADO) Program during a dialogue at Camp Gen. Manuel T. Yan in Barangay Tuboran, Mawab town, Davao de Oro on Wednesday.

The CADO Program of the Department of National Defense is reportedly focused on enhancing the tactical and community peacebuilding initiatives of the Armed Forces.

Radio reports in Central Mindanao on Thursday stated that Teodoro also lauded the units of the 10th ID, under Major Gen. Alvin Luzon, for continuously implementing, along with local government units, a multi-sector community initiative that have fostered tranquility in remote areas where the New People’s Army (NPA) once operated with impunity.

Teodoro also talked then about the DND’s CADO Program, which is focused on the strengthening of the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.

Luzon said Teodoro was accompanied to the 10th ID’s headquarters by Major Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command.

Teodoro also reportedly commended the personnel of all units under the 10th ID, scattered towns and cities across Regions 10, 11 and 13, for their activities complementing the joint peace and security initiatives of LGUs, the indigenous communities and former NPA members who have returned to the fold of law.

“The visit of Defense Secretary Teodoro to our headquarters boosted our morale and inspired us to work harder in spreading peace and calm in our area of responsibility,” Luzon said on Thursday.

Different 10th ID units had secured the surrender of 1,323 NPA members in the past six years through backchannel dialogues supported by LGU officials and leaders of indigenous communities in towns and cities under its jurisdiction. –  John Unson