CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- Thirty-seven (37) newly promoted Generals and Flag Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), together with a newly graduated officer from a Foreign Pre-Commission Training Institution, took their oath before President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in a ceremony at Malacañang Palace on January 7, 2026.
In his message, President Marcos urged the officers to serve as responsible stewards of the nation’s resources and to uphold the highest standards of leadership and integrity in military service. He also recognized the AFP’s accomplishments over the past year in protecting Philippine waters, responding to calamities, sustaining peace and security, and strengthening international defense partnerships through joint exercises and interoperability initiatives.
Following the ceremony, the officers paid a courtesy call to General Romeo S Brawner Jr, AFP Chief of Staff at Camp Aguinaldo, where he addressed them and emphasized the values that must guide their leadership. The highest-ranking among the newly promoted officers was Lieutenant General Donald M. Gumiran PA, Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
“The ranks you now wear are not simply rewards for past achievements, they are responsibilities entrusted to you after years of preparation and sacrifice. You must lead with humility, serve with gratitude, and always remember that success in the profession of arms is never achieved alone," General Brawner said.
The AFP Chief of Staff also congratulated 2LT Rafael Cecilio B. Muñoz, who took his oath before the President after completing his training at the United States Military Academy, and wished him well in his career in the Philippine Army.
“You do not have to become a general to be successful in the service. What matters most is giving your best in every assignment and serving with integrity wherever duty takes you," he said.///
Photos by PFC Richard Carmelotes PN(M)/PAOAFP
