President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday urged 34 newly promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to lead with integrity, competence and accountability, stressing that military leadership must be anchored on the trust of the Filipino people.

During the oath-taking ceremony in Malacañang, Marcos said the officers’ promotions carry a greater responsibility to protect the people, uphold national sovereignty and defend the country’s territorial integrity.

“No matter how advanced our capabilities may become, we must never lose sight of the trust and confidence of the Filipino people,” he said.

“Sustaining that trust is a responsibility that all of us share: government, our institutions, and our communities,” he added.

Among those who took their oath was AFP chief Gen. Antonio Nafarrete.

Marcos said the country is navigating an increasingly complex security environment, requiring senior officers who can inspire confidence at every level of command and prepare the next generation of military leaders.

He urged the newly promoted officers to share their experience, develop the abilities of personnel under their command, and build an institution whose strength goes beyond the tenure of any individual leader.

The President’s call comes as the AFP continues to balance territorial defense, internal security and humanitarian operations in an archipelagic country whose security concerns span its extensive land and maritime domains.

From December 2025 to November 2026, the military conducted more than 2,600 surface patrol missions, primarily in the Kalayaan Island Group, Batanes and Tawi-Tawi, Marcos said.

These were complemented by more than 250 maritime air patrol missions covering the West Philippine Sea, the country’s maritime rights and its southern boundary.

The AFP also facilitated 17 bilateral and 15 multilateral maritime cooperative activities in the West Philippine Sea with partner countries, including the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, France and India.

Marcos said these operations demonstrate the country’s commitment to protecting its maritime interests while strengthening defense cooperation with other nations.

The Philippines has been strengthening its external defense capabilities under its Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, which seeks to improve the military’s ability to secure the country’s territory and maritime domain.

On internal security, Marcos said the AFP dismantled one regional party committee and 10 subregional party committees as part of its campaign against insurgency and terrorism.

He said these gains support efforts to establish lasting peace, security and development in affected communities.

The military also remained at the forefront of disaster response during the onslaught of the southwest monsoon and several weather disturbances, including tropical cyclones Luis, Maymay and Neneng.

Marcos also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to provide the military with the support and resources needed to fulfill its mandate and modernize its capabilities.

He reminded the newly promoted officers that soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines deserve leaders who are competent, fair and mindful of the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families.

“So, share the lessons of your experience. Develop the abilities of those under your command. Build an institution whose strength endures beyond the tenure of any leader,” he told the new military generals. (PNA)