President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday underscored the importance of empowering the government troops, as “complex and dynamic” challenges continue to plague the country.

Marcos made the remark as he acknowledged that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been the bedrock of the country’s sovereignty for nearly nine decades, serving as “a vital force that protects our land, our people, our freedoms.”

Marcos said the AFP, as “stewards of our national defense,” bears the responsibility of ensuring the security of land, seas, skies, and cyberspace.

“We continue to face complex and dynamic challenges — threats to our sovereignty, lawless elements that undermine peace, and the increasing frequency of natural disasters. These require us to remain steadfast, resourceful, unyielding in our resolve,” he said during the oath-taking of 37 newly-promoted AFP generals and flag officers at Malacañan Palace in Manila.

“Equally, we must continue to empower our troops to serve our communities better. Train them to respond not only with skill but with empathy —ensuring that their actions reflect the highest ideals of public service,” he added.

Marcos said the recent conclusion of the eighth iteration of the AFP Joint Exercise Dagat-Langit-Lupa (DAGIT-PA) enhances the government forces’ tactics, techniques, and procedures, as they address evolving security threats and operationalize the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.

He called on the AFP officials to continue empowering soldiers to better serve communities and train them to act with both skill and empathy, ensuring that their actions reflect the highest ideals of public service.

Marcos also assured the AFP of his administration’s continued support to realize his vision of making the “New Philippines” a “stronger, more secure, more equitable” nation for all.

“Every decision we make now, every action that we take, will help shape the course of our Republic,” he said. “As our senior officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, I enjoin you to lead with honor, serve with integrity, and inspire others with your example. Stand with your troops, stand for the Constitution, and above all, stand for the Filipino people.”

Marcos also stressed the need to uphold international maritime laws in defending Philippine waters to deepen the country’s commitment to regional peace and cooperation.

“By fostering coordination amongst nations, we can safeguard stability while advancing our collective interests. Diplomacy rooted in strong legal foundations is our most effective instrument in navigating these endeavors,” he said. (PNA)