President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the graduation ceremony for military personnel who completed the Major Services Officer Candidate Course at Villamor Air Base on Monday.

In his message to the troops, the President urged the military officers to do the right thing amid the temptations of corruption and disloyalty.

“There will be moments when your integrity will be tested. Corruption and dishonesty can manifest in many forms,” he said. “So always choose what is right. Choose the people. Choose honesty and peace.”

As members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Commander-in-Chief emphasized the potential battles they will face in an ever-changing world.

“The world is changing fast. These changes can create new risks for our country,” he said.

“As such, we must continue to defend our rights in the West Philippine Sea, where our fishermen and our soldiers stand their ground amidst growing challenges. We will stay vigilant against any attempt to weaken our sovereignty or test our resolve,” he said.

The President said that with the knowledge they gained from the training, the graduates were now part of the new generation of soldiers who “think fast, act smart, and work closely with others,” whether they are Filipino brothers and sisters or foreign nationals.

Rise above politics

Amid the political noise, the President stressed that the troops must rise above politics.

“Your loyalty must not be to any individual or any faction, but only to the republic,” Marcos said.

In return, he pledged the government’s full support in advancing the armed forces’ capabilities and investing in radar systems, ships, aircraft, and facilities to strengthen deterrence and improve disaster response.

“As your Commander-in-Chief, I promise that this government remains committed to building a modern and professional Armed Forces,” he said.

He also noted the importance of deepening partnerships with other countries, such as Japan, the United States, Australia, and other allies.

This is “to better protect our shared peace and our stability,” he said.

“Ladies and gentlemen, graduates, wherever you may be assigned — on land, at sea, in the air — remember that your mission will go beyond completing missions,” he said.

“Ultimately, it will be about maintaining peace and building a nation.”