CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) marked its 90th Anniversary on December 19, under the theme “Matatag na Sandatahang Lakas, Sandigan ng Bagong Pilipinas,” honoring nine decades of dedicated service and excellence to the nation.
The ceremony was led by the President of the Republic of the Philippines and Commander-in-Chief HE Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., and was attended by Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. and AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., as they paid tribute to the AFP’s enduring legacy of valor in upholding the Republic.
Highlighting the AFP’s culture of excellence, the program recognized military personnel for acts of heroism and honored civilian human resource for their significant contributions to the organization. Units that demonstrated exceptional performance were awarded the AFP Campaign Streamer and the Chief of Staff, AFP (CSAFP) Streamer Award, reflecting their unwavering commitment to duty and service.
The celebration also featured the promotion of Captain Jerome J. Jacuba PA to the permanent rank of Major, in recognition of his exemplary service and dedication to the AFP’s mission. The promotion underscored the AFP’s commitment to its personnel, particularly those wounded in the line of duty, ensuring they continue to serve meaningfully while receiving the care, support, and respect they deserve.
The formal program concluded with the AFP’s simultaneous boodle fight, bringing together different units—including personnel deployed in BRP Sierra Madre (LS57), Pag-asa Island, and Mavulis Island—through a coordinated video teleconference. This shared celebration highlighted the unity, camaraderie, and collective spirit of the holiday season across the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines.
In his remarks, the President underscored the AFP’s vital role in defending national sovereignty, promoting peace, and upholding international law, particularly through cooperative maritime domain operations. “And in the same vein, we remain firm and clear with our stance: what is ours is ours. We stand our ground, with purpose and without apology,” the President said.
President Marcos also reminded AFP personnel of the deeper meaning of their service during the coming holiday season. “Nagdiriwang ang sambayanang Pilipino nang may panatag na loob dahil alam naming nariyan kayo—nagbabantay at handang tumugon para sa bayan.”
The 90th Anniversary celebration reaffirmed the AFP’s enduring legacy of honor, service, and patriotism, and its commitment to remain a modern, professional, and values-driven force dedicated to the Filipino people and the Republic.
Photos by SSg Ambay PA and PFC Carmelotes PN(M) / PAOAFP, Edward Bungubung
