President bolsters defense, integrity

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. underscored the role of the Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization program in bolstering the nation’s defense capabilities during the week of 7 April.

He highlighted plans to acquire missile systems, warships and fighter jets under the Re-Horizon 3 phase (2023–2028), emphasizing a strong deterrent force.

Concurrently, Marcos addressed the Philippine National Police during an oath-taking ceremony for 39 star-ranked officers, urging them to uphold constitutional integrity and serve as exemplars of discipline and justice, reinforcing their role as protectors and moral leaders in uncertain times.

Throughout the week, Marcos prioritized support for vulnerable groups, ordering the swift release of P500,000 in financial aid to families of fallen soldiers and uniformed personnel, and witnessed the signing of a Joint Memorandum Circular.

DAILY TRIBUNE supports the President’s mission to uphold truth and transparency. It collaborates with the Bureau of Communications Services under the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) to provide a concise overview of the Chief Executive’s weekly engagements.

7 April

AFP’s modernization vital to credible defense

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization program is vital to achieving a credible defense posture and hinges on the leadership’s commitment to modernization.

In a Palace briefing, the PCO said the Marcos administration plans to acquire more missile systems to enhance the integration of air and missile defense capabilities, alongside the purchase of warships and multi-role fighter jets, to build a strong and reliable deterrent force.

The AFP Modernization Program consists of three phases known as Horizons. Horizon 1 was implemented from 2013 to 2017, Horizon 2 ran from 2018 to 2022, and Horizon 3 is ongoing from 2023 to 2028.

PNP must uphold oath

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reminded the Philippine National Police that effective leadership in law enforcement requires a commitment to the Constitution and the highest standards of integrity and justice, during the oath-taking of 39 star-rank PNP officers in Malacañang.

Marcos called on the PNP to stay faithful to their sworn duties and to serve as paragons of integrity and constitutional fidelity.

8 April

Alert system not for campaigning

The PCO warned against using the Emergency Cell Broadcast System (ECBS) for political campaigning. The PCO stressed the ECBS should be used strictly for emergencies.

The ECBS is a vital communication tool used by the government to issue critical public safety and life-saving notifications during natural disasters, security threats, and other emergencies.

Holy Week monitoring intensifies

The President has instructed the Department of Transportation and other agencies to intensify their monitoring to ensure the safety and convenience of commuters during Holy Week, as announced by the PCO during a briefing in Malacañang.

The President directed law enforcement agencies to monitor the security situation during Holy Week.

Strict inspections will be implemented at terminals, ports, and airports to prevent transport delays.

DTI praised for digital push

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) received plaudits for its pioneering effort at boosting digital innovation and economic inclusion through its Bagong Pilipinas Marketplace.

At the DTI-Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair 2025, President Marcos hailed the platform as a significant step forward in the country’s digital transformation and a powerful tool to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises.

9 April

Culinary heritage celebrated

President Marcos led in the celebration of Filipino Food Month and the opening of the DTI-Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair 2025.

During the event, the President hailed the country’s rich culinary tradition, hardworking food producers, and the growing digital innovation in the food and agriculture sectors.

10 April

Golden age of Philippine-Morocco relations

President Marcos congratulated King Mohammed VI of Morocco on the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Morocco.

In his letter to the King, Mr. Marcos described the milestone as an opportunity for both countries to reflect on their achievements in the past five decades and to chart a path for future cooperation.

King Mohammed VI congratulated President Marcos, underscoring the significance of the longstanding partnership of the two countries. There are around 4,600 Filipinos residing in Morocco.

Strong ties with France hailed

The President welcomed the deepening and vibrant diplomatic ties between the Philippines and France, emphasizing their foundation in shared values and adherence to international laws.

During the courtesy call by French Minister for Foreign Trade Laurent Saint-Martin in Malacañang, Mr. Marcos expressed his gratitude for France’s material and moral support for the Philippines.

For his part, Saint-Martin expressed his appreciation to the President and Trade Secretary Cristina Roque for the warm welcome he received.