President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday dismissed claims branding the Philippines as a terrorism training hotspot, stressing that security forces have long acted decisively to dismantle terrorist networks and protect the country’s hard-earned peace.

Speaking at the 90th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) at Camp Aguinaldo, Marcos described the allegations as misleading and unacceptable, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening the military’s capability, credibility, and readiness against threats.

“We also reject in the strongest terms the recent misleading claims that portray our country as a training hotspot for terrorism,” the President said.

“For years, we have acted decisively to dismantle terrorist networks, to secure communities, and to sustain our hard-earned peace. To dismiss these gains with unfounded speculation is not acceptable,” he added.

Marcos emphasized that while the government remains vigilant against security threats, it will not be distracted by deceptive narratives. “Nevertheless, we remain vigilant. We will not let deceptive narratives distract us nor weaken our resolve,” he said.

During the event, the President also honored AFP personnel who received awards, praising them for setting the gold standard in bravery, innovation, and distinguished service.

“Araw-araw na naglilingkod. Araw-araw na naninindigan. Kaya sa ngalan ng mamamayang Pilipino, maraming salamat sa inyong galing, tapang, at malasakit (Serving every day. Standing firm every day. So, in the name of the Filipino people, thank you very much for your excellence, courage, and compassion),” Marcos said.

The Chief Executive reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring proper compensation and equipment for military personnel, citing his recent approval of Executive Order No. 107, which updates the base pay schedule of all military and uniformed personnel.

Under the order, the updated base pay will take effect in January 2026, with subsequent adjustments scheduled for 2027 and 2028.

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

The AFP was formally established on 21 December 1935, under the National Defense Act during the American Commonwealth era, with roots tracing back to the Philippine Revolutionary Army of 1897 and the Philippine Constabulary organized in 1901.