President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday, December 1, 2025 urged newly commissioned officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to uphold integrity, remain apolitical, and defend the country’s sovereignty amid growing challenges in the West Philippine Sea. 

Speaking at the joint graduation ceremony of the Major Services Officer Candidate Course at Villamor Air Base, Marcos congratulated the graduates of the Philippine Army Class “Bumannawag,” the Philippine Navy Class “Sagmaraya,” and the Philippine Air Force Class “Kahimdaliyan.” 

“Your loyalty must not be to any individual or any faction, but only to the Republic,” Marcos said. 

The President highlighted the importance of vigilance in protecting Filipino fishermen and soldiers in the West Philippine Sea, stressing that the AFP must adapt to fast-changing global conditions. 

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernizing the military through investments in radar systems, ships, aircraft, and facilities, while strengthening defense partnerships with allies such as Japan, the United States, and Australia. 

Marcos reminded the graduates that their mission extends beyond combat, citing roles in disaster response, election security, and supporting government programs in remote communities. 

“There will be moments when your integrity will be tested. Corruption and dishonesty can manifest in many forms. Kaya piliin niyo lagi ang tama. Piliin ninyo ang bayan. Piliin ninyo ang katapatan at ang kapayapaan,” he said. 

The ceremony marked the commissioning of a new batch of AFP officers, whom Marcos described as carrying both the pride of their families and the hope of the nation for peace and progress.