The Department of National Defense on Monday reaffirmed its commitment to quality public service as it opened its monthlong celebration of the 126th Philippine Civil Service Anniversary at Camp Aguinaldo.

Representing Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Undersecretary for Administration Gavin Edjawan highlighted the role of civilian personnel in carrying out the department’s mandate while upholding the highest standards of public service.

“We have a role to play in building our country’s strong deterrent posture that will allow us to, as Secretary Teodoro said, ‘deal with a position of relative parity with dignity and with honor,’” Edjawan said.

This year’s celebration carries the theme, “Bawat Kawani, Lingkod Bayani: Puso, Dangal, at Galing Para sa Bayan.”

Edjawan urged DND employees to continue practicing the values and ethics expected of public servants and to remain steadfast in earning the trust of the Filipino people.

“As we confront evolving challenges and pursue meaningful reforms in governance, I encourage all government personnel to continue upholding the highest standards of excellence, accountability, and ethical conduct,” he said.

The monthlong celebration is held pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 1050, series of 1997, which declared September as Civil Service Month.

The commemoration also marks the establishment of the Philippine Civil Service on 19 September 1900 through Public Law No. 5.