PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged senior officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to uphold international maritime laws.

Marcos made the statement after the China Coast Guard launched water cannon attacks and rammed a vessel of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) in the vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc.

“In defending our waters, we must uphold international maritime laws, deepening our commitment to regional peace and cooperation. By fostering coordination amongst nations, we can safeguard stability while advancing our collective interests,” Marcos said during the oath-taking of 36 newly-promoted generals and flag officers at the Malacañan Palace on Wednesday.

The President reminded the AFP generals to stand with their troops, uphold the Constitution, and defend the Filipino people.

“Diplomacy rooted in strong legal foundations is our most effective instrument in navigating these endeavors,” Marcos said.

“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,” Marcos said.

The President assured the AFP of his steadfast support in strengthening the institution and in upholding the rule of law to build a Bagong Pilipinas – a nation that is stronger, more secure, and more equitable for all.

“Mabigat man ang inyong sinumpaang tungkulin; marami mang hamon ang kailangang harapin; makakaasa kayo na ang buong bansa ay kasama ninyo—nagdadasal para sa inyong kaligtasan, sumusuporta sa inyong mga hakbang, at umaasang maglilingkod kayo nang may katapatan sa ating bayan,” he said.

“Higit sa lahat, isulong natin ang mga pangarap ng bawat Pilipino sa pamamagitan ng bawat misyon na naitupad natin, bawat sakripisyong iniaalay, at bawat hamong tinapatan ng tagumpay,” the President added.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Chona Yu