‘Government must serve with integrity to rise above adversities’

MANILA, Philippines — As his administration grapples with political issues, President Marcos has highlighted the need for the government to serve with integrity and to work more vigorously in creating a united, just and peaceful country.

Speaking during the Army’s 128th anniversary celebration yesterday at Fort Bonifacio, Marcos said efforts to enhance the skills and promote the welfare of soldiers form part of a broader vision of a nation where Filipinos no longer need to worry about their safety.

“When peace and order are in place, we can pursue knowledge, we can work towards prosperity and we can contribute to our country’s progress,” the President said.

“To achieve this, the government must lead by example. We strive for a government that listens, that acts and serves with integrity. That is the only way to rise above
adversities and move forward as a people,” he added.

Noting the emergence of more complex threats, Marcos said being a soldier requires not just courage and skills, but also a firm resolve and a willingness to serve.

“What is needed is a stance that will not waver in the face of trials, a principle that cannot be bent by fear and a a heart that is ready to serve faithfully without waiting for anything in return,” he said.

“In any institution, a rank or power is not enough. The true measure is the readiness to set aside one’s personal interests for a higher aim. Even if we play different roles, our goal to form a united, just and truly peaceful country must prevail.”

According to Marcos, public servants choose to serve not for themselves but for “the countless generations that will come after us.”

Marcos emphasized the need for unity as the Philippines is gripped with political discord arising from the arrest of his critic, former president Rodrigo Duterte, for alleged crimes against humanity.

Duterte, whose campaign against illegal drugs left thousands dead, is now under the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

However, Duterte’s allies have argued that his arrest on an ICC warrant was illegal, prompting them to ask the Supreme Court to compel the government to stop cooperating with the international tribunal.

The Marcos administration has maintained that Duterte’s arrest followed due process and was in line with the Philippines’ commitment with the International Criminal Police Organization.

Ready for future

Marcos expressed optimism that the Army would be able to withstand future challenges, saying its strength extends beyond firepower, as it draws from its personnel’s honor, integrity and fortitude.

“The road ahead is not easy. There will be delays, frustrations and challenges as they always are. Our strength and resolve will continue to be tested. But I have no doubt, the Philippine Army will withstand the test, will stand firm, as it always has in the past 128 years,” Marcos said.

The President also called on the country’s ground troops to stay relentless in their pursuit of excellence, as well as to sharpen their skills, master their craft and embrace innovation. He lauded the Army for its contributions to the nation, describing the major service as “a pillar of strength and of stability.”

Marcos said the Army has been faithful to its duty whether in combat, in crisis or in calamity. He also commended the Army for its perfect score in policy and facility assessments during the General Security of Military Information Agreement evaluation.

“They have proven themselves to be ready, reliable and resolute in their sworn oath to their duty to our people,” Marcos, also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, said.

Marcos said his administration remains committed to ensuring that the Army, the military’s largest major service, is always ready to fulfill its mission. He cited the conduct of the second Combined Arms Training Exercise or CATEX Katihan, which he said was crucial in sharpening soldiers’ combat readiness and capability to respond to threats.

Marcos also mentioned his issuance of Executive Order no. 84, which raised the subsistence allowance of all military officers and personnel.

“While nothing can match your sacrifices for our country, we are hoping that we can assist you so you can better perform your duties,” the Chief Executive said.

“Just like your promotion of the rights of the people and peace in communities, we are ready to be your advocate, especially in times of need,” he added.

Marcos praised Army chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido for his leadership and thanked the soldiers for their service.

“Threats have grown increasingly more complex, and the battleground is no longer contained in land – it now extends into cyberspace and beyond,” he said.

“The challenges demand greater adaptability, greater discipline and further commitment to the nation’s security and progress. And yet, through all this, the Philippine Army has never wavered.”

VP’s tribute

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte also paid tribute to the Army in a video statement on Facebook. The Vice President is in The Hague, where her father former president Rodrigo Duterte is detained.

“Today, we honor an institution deeply rooted in our nation’s history. For generations, the brave men and women of the Philippine Army have shown that the Filipino fighting spirit burns in the hearts of every Filipino – a flame that proves we are a nation of patriots,” the Vice President said.

“Let us remember our fallen soldiers. Their names may be carved in stone, but their spirits live on in the nation they helped build through their sacrifice, courage and bravery. They died for us to live in peace,” she added.

The Vice President also honored the retired Army veterans “for inspiring a new generation of Filipinos to follow their lead and serve the nation.”

She commended the active members of the Philippine Army for serving the country with “integrity, honor and undying commitment.”

“May your ranks be filled with courage, your missions guided by honor and your hearts strengthened by the knowledge that your service inspires future generations,” she said.

“Through challenges, the Philippine Army will emerge stronger, more respected and more committed to protecting our people and the Constitution,” she added. — Elizabeth Marcelo