The Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday vowed to spare no effort in securing the country and its territories for various development projects of the Marcos administration to bear fruit.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. made the assurance as he joined the nation in honoring the contributions and hard work of the Filipino workforce on Labor Day.

“Ang araw na ito ay pag-alala at pagkilala sa kontribusyon ng ating mga manggagawa tungo sa isang matatag, maunlad, at payapang Pilipinas (this day is to remember and recognized the contribution made by our workers in ensuring that the nation is strong, prosperous and peaceful),” Teodoro said in a message.

The DND chief said a safe and secure country will pave the way for progressive industries, robust infrastructure projects and socio-economic programs that will help uplift the lives of Filipinos.

Teodoro also said the DND would assist the Department of Labor and Employment in upholding the rights of Filipino workers.

“Muli, ang Kagawaran ay nakikiisa sa pagpupugay at pagbati sa mga manggagawang Pilipino, na tunay na maipagmamalaki saan mang panig ng mundo (Again, the Department joins in saluting and congratulating all Filipino work force whom we can be proud of in any part of the world),” he added.

AFP salutes all Filipino workers

AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. also expressed their appreciation for every Filipino worker, whom they called the “driving force behind our nation’s strength and resilience.”

“Your dedication, whether in the quiet perseverance of early mornings or in the relentless effort through long days, powers our country’s continued progress,” he added.

This includes the Filipino farmers who tirelessly till the land, teachers who shape young minds, healthcare professionals, public servants and skilled workers and overseas Filipino workers, Brawner added.

“You labor not only for your families but for the generations yet to come. In the way you strive and persevere, you embody what it means to work with honor, purpose, and heart,” Brawner said.

He also added that the AFP stands with all hardworking Filipino workers.

“As you build and sustain the firm foundations of our nation, we, your Armed Forces, remain steadfast in our duty to safeguard the peace and security that allow every Filipino to labor with dignity and pride,” he added.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) also hailed the strength, wisdom, and dedication of all Filipino workers striving to create a better future for the country.

It added that these Filipino workers go about their jobs daily despite the challenges.

The PNP also called Filipino workers the “society’s foundation”. (PNA)