We heard President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s call to not yield in the defense and protection of our territory and sovereign rights. This is a call that will always be heeded by those in the profession of arms, a duty and mandate that will always rally the brave sons and daughters of our nation.
The AFP fully supports the President's strategy of a fair and pacific approach, emphasizing a rules-based international order and efforts toward de-escalation. We believe in the importance of maintaining peace and stability through diplomatic means and constructive dialogue.
We stand behind the president's vision of building strong relationships with like-minded nations to promote mutual security and cooperation. The AFP expresses gratitude for the unwavering support for our modernization efforts and the push towards self-reliance, which are essential for strengthening our defense capabilities.
As we shift our focus towards external defense, we are thankful for the president's acknowledgment of our accomplishments in addressing internal security threats. We fully commit to the whole-of-nation approach and the fulfillment of our government's obligations and agreements aimed at ending decades of strife and ushering just and lasting peace in the country.
In the performance of our mandate, the AFP remains committed to raising awareness about the intergenerational duty of all Filipinos to protect the West Philippine Sea. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our maritime domains are preserved for future generations.
The AFP will continue to uphold our mission, ensuring that our sovereignty and territorial integrity are safeguarded and that we remain vigilant in our commitment to national defense. We will not yield and waver and will face open and covert threats to our national security with the courage of a true Filipino patriot.