By Darryl John Esguerra | Philippine News Agency
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the Philippines will continue to seek peace but will never compromise its sovereignty or national dignity amid persistent security and territorial challenges.
President Marcos Jr. made the statement as he led the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) change-of-command ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo, where Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete formally assumed as the country’s new military chief, succeeding retiring AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.
“As we strengthen our defenses, we remain guided by the principle that our ultimate objective is to preserve peace, stability, and prosperity for our people,” Marcos Jr. said.
“The Philippines has always been, and will always remain, a nation that seeks peace. We adhere to international law. We are a respectful nation that conducts itself with dignity, restraint, and compassion,” he said.
“We seek cooperation, but we will never compromise our sovereignty. We extend friendship to all, but we will never abandon our national dignity. That has always been the Filipino way, and that will always be our course.”
The President’s remarks came amid heightened tensions in the West Philippine Sea following the reported assault on a member of the Philippine Navy near Ayungin Shoal, and the circulation of a racist artificial intelligence-generated video by Chinese state media depicting Filipinos as “monkeys.”
Marcos Jr. did not directly mention China but emphasized the country’s pursuit of peace should never be mistaken for weakness.
As commander-in-chief, he assured Nafarrete that the administration would continue investing in the AFP’s modernization, operational readiness, and the welfare of its personnel.
“I assure you that this administration will continue to invest in the capabilities, readiness, and welfare of our Armed Forces,” he said.
“The command entrusted to you is great, but the purpose is even greater—to safeguard our people, defend every inch of our land and waters, and secure the future of our Republic.”
The President also paid tribute to Brawner, who became the first AFP chief to complete the fixed three-year term under Republic Act No. 11939.
He credited Brawner Jr. for strengthening internal security operations, sustaining the military’s presence in the West Philippine Sea, expanding defense cooperation with allies, modernizing the AFP, and enhancing disaster response capabilities.
Nafarrete, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1990, previously served as commanding general of the Philippine Army and chief of the AFP Western Mindanao Command, where he led operations against insurgency and terrorism.
