Military modernization affirmed

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. reaffirmed his administration’s push to modernize the military and expand the Philippine Army’s role in external defense as he marked the force’s 129^th founding anniversary on Thursday.

Speaking at Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Mr. Marcos said the Philippine Army must build on gains in internal security while preparing for emerging threats spanning maritime and digital domains.

“The demands of our time call for a force that is agile, effective, and prepared to safeguard our nation across new and evolving domains,” he said.

Mr. Marcos said the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines are continuing to monitor internal threats while coordinating with law enforcement and the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict to sustain peace and development efforts in communities.

He urged the awardees to “uphold excellence” and “inspire” fellow soldiers to build communities that thrive in safety. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana