MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. assured the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Council of Sergeants Major on Monday that the administration will continue implementing programs and policies that will promote their welfare and of their families.
In his speech during the traditional dinner for the AFP Council of Sergeants Major at the Malacañan Palace, President Marcos reminded them to keep up their good work as he reiterated that the administration and the Philippines will always be on their side as they fulfill their duties.
“Rest assured that we will remain steadfast in transforming and modernizing the AFP into a world-class force that is respected by its counterparts and is a source of national pride,” President Marcos said.
“So, let me likewise assure you that we will continue to implement programs and policies that will promote your welfare, and not only those who are in active service but those whose families I consider also to be in active service. So, keep up the good work. Know that this administration and the entire country is behind you as you fulfill your duties to the nation,” he added.
The President hosted the annual traditional dinner for the AFP Council of Sergeants Major. Around 180 guests from the AFP, the Department of National Defense (DND), and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Military and Police Affairs (OPAMPA) attended the event.
The chief executive expressed his gratitude to the officials as he joined with them in celebrating the 27th Non-Commissioned Officers Week and the 54th Founding Anniversary of the Office of the AFP Sergeant Major.
President Marcos noted that the enlisted personnel are the backbone of the country’s military force as they compose 90 percent of the troops and, with their specialized abilities, support the daily operations and institutional activities of the AFP.
“You are vital to our sustained success of defending our state, our sovereignty, and our patrimony. It is, therefore, of utmost importance that we help each other and make sure that they all reach their fullest potential, so that they become well-rounded soldiers,” the President said.
“This is where you Sergeants Major come into the picture. As the most senior, most experienced, [and] most seasoned amongst our enlisted personnel, you help in implementing the plans and strategies that we are enforcing on the ground,” he added.
President Marcos also emphasized that the officers also ensure that the bonds between the AFP officials and the troops remain strong and unbreakable that the “help steer the direction and performance” of the enlisted personnel within their respective unit.
The President also acknowledged their efforts to staying attuned to the needs of the Filipino troops across the country and in boosting their morale and welfare.
“You have also engaged your counterparts from other countries such as the United States to discuss important topics, such as the proposal to create a mutually agreed Professional Development Program in support of the Philippines-United States Mutual Defense Treaty,” President Marcos said.
“So, for all of these things that you do, I have nothing but utmost respect and admiration for all of you and for all that you have done for our country, for our people, for our Armed Forces. So, continue to show them your selfless and dedicated service to the nation that enabled you to reach the positions that you occupy today,” he added.
The chief executive said he will count on their support in ensuring that the AFP can adapt easily and prepare for any contingency, considering the changes in the security environment of the Philippines.
The President also expressed confidence that the sergeants major will continue to learn new skills, acquire more knowledge and enhance their competence to fully realize the objectives of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. (PND)
