MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III lauded the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday for carrying out disaster relief and rescue operations and for ensuring the country's safety.
In his speech during the 79th anniversary of the AFP, Aquino commended the Air Force for their response during the Zamboanga siege, as well as the peacekeepers from Golan Heights and troops stationed on Ayungin Shoal for guarding the country's territory.
The President also praised the military force for delivering relief and rescue missions during natural disasters such as the earthquake in Bohol and Cebu and typhoons Sendong, Pablo, Santi, Yolanda and Ruby.
Aquino, who is also the AFP's Commander-in-Chief, reminded the military force about their duty to maintain peace in the upcoming elections in 2016.
"Nalalapit na po ang 2016, at alam naman po natin na sa panahon ng halalan, talagang may mga magpupumilit pa ring gamitin kayo para sa pansariling interes. Ang atas ng taumbayan: Tungkulin nating siguruhin ang katiwasayan pagdating ng halalan. Inaasahan ang inyong hanay na manatili sa panig ng taumbayan," Aquino said.
Aquino said that some corrupt officials may use the military for their personal gains in the elections.
"Huwag kayong magpapadala sa tukso o magpapakaladkad sa sinumang nagbabalak na ilihis tayo sa tuwid na landas," Aquino said.
The President also delivered the good news that the Congress has approved a bill that would raise the subsistence allowance of the military and the police force from P90 to P150.
"Inaabangan na lang po natin ang panukala, at 'pag lumapag ito sa ating mesa ay pipirmahan agad natin ito," Aquino assured the soldiers.