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Marcos to new AFP officers: Rise above politics, uphold integrity

Philippine News Agency

By Darryl John Esguerra
December 1, 2025, 12:46 pm

MANILA -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday called on newly commissioned officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to remain strictly nonpartisan and to uphold integrity in the face of corruption challenges confronting the government.

Speaking as guest of honor at the Major Services Officer Candidate Course Joint Graduation Ceremony at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, Marcos reminded the 638 graduates that their loyalty should rest solely with the republic.

"The AFP that you are part of now must always rise above politics. Your loyalty must not be for any individual or any faction, but only to the Republic," Marcos said.

The President made the call amid his administration's ongoing campaign against anomalies in government, particularly corruption in flood control projects, reiterating that the AFP must set the standard at a time when public trust is strained due to the corruption issues.

Marcos warned the graduates that they would face moments testing their integrity as he stressed that "corruption and dishonesty can manifest in many forms."

"There will be moments when your integrity will be tested... Kaya piliin ninyo lagi ang tama, piliin ninyo ang Bayan, piliin ninyo ang katapatan at ang kapayapaan (Always choose what is right, choose the country, choose honesty and peace)," Marcos said.

The Commander-in-Chief emphasized that becoming military officers carries an expectation of higher moral discipline.

"By becoming full-fledged officers, your integrity is carried in your uniform," he said.

The graduation ceremony featured the Philippine Air Force Kahimdaliyan Class 2025, Philippine Navy Sagmaraya Class 2025, and Philippine Army Bumannawag Class 2025.

During the ceremony, Marcos led the awarding of the top graduates and the presentation of diplomas to class presidents.

Marcos assured the AFP of the administration's commitment to modernization, citing investments in radar systems, ships, aircraft, facilities and strengthened security partnerships with Japan, the United States, Australia and other allies.

"As your Commander-in-Chief, I promise that this government remains committed to building a modern and professional armed force," he said.

Marcos further reminded the new officers that their roles extend beyond the battlefield, highlighting missions such as disaster response, election security, and delivering government services to far-flung communities.

"Ultimately, it will be about maintaining peace and building a nation," he said. (PNA)