President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. lauded the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for its nine decades of service to the nation, praising its role in protecting the country’s sovereignty, strengthening security, and responding to both traditional and emerging threats.

For those sacrifices come corresponding gains through concrete benefits for uniformed personnel, the Commander-in-Chief said, revealing that Executive Order 107 updates the base pay of military and uniformed personnel.

The pay hike will take effect in January 2026, with additional adjustments scheduled for 2027 and 2028.

“This is just one of the many ways that we show our gratitude for the service that you have rendered to our country,” Marcos said.

Protecting patrimony

Speaking at the AFP’s 90th anniversary at Tejeros Hall in Camp Aguinaldo, Marcos said the military has consistently carried the responsibility of keeping the republic “sovereign, standing, and secure,” amid peace and conflict.

“The nation is safe because of you standing guard,” the President told the 160,000-strong force, honoring soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines, including those who had fallen in the line of duty. 

He said their sacrifices are remembered not only in ceremonies, but in the freedoms Filipinos enjoy every day.

Marcos highlighted the AFP’s accomplishments over the past year, citing gains in internal and external security, expanded cybersecurity operations to counter digital threats, and practical humanitarian assistance and disaster response missions that saved lives and restored order in affected communities.

In the maritime domain, the President said the Philippines continues to engage in cooperative activities with other nations, underscoring its commitment to international law. 

At the same time, he stressed the government’s firm stance in protecting the national interest. 

“What is ours is ours. We stand our ground, with purpose and without apology,” he said, drawing applause from the audience.

Marcos also rejected what he described as misleading claims portraying the Philippines as a training hotspot for terrorism, saying the country has long acted decisively to dismantle terrorist networks and secure communities. 

“To dismiss these gains with unfounded speculation is not acceptable,” he said, while assuring that the government remains vigilant against security threats.

The President reiterated his administration’s push for a modern, capable, and principled AFP — one that is strong enough to deter threats, disciplined to prevent escalation, and committed to protecting the peace.

During the ceremony, Marcos recognized the military personnel who were awarded for their bravery, innovation, and distinguished service, saying that they set the “gold standard” of excellence and reflected the character of the Filipino nation.

As the Christmas season approaches, the President reminded the troops that their service gives meaning to the peace Filipinos celebrate with their families. 

He closed his remarks with a salute to the AFP and a message of gratitude to all defenders of the Republic of the Philippines.