Marcos Jr. to new generals: Protect public resources

MANILA, Philippines —  President Marcos reminded newly promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday to lead with integrity and be among the guardians of the country’s resources.

“More than your role as the protectors of our nation, you must also be among the faithful stewards who guard public resources,” the President said in his speech at the oath-taking of newly promoted 37 generals and flag officers of the AFP and the lone commissioned graduate of Foreign Pre-Commissioned Training Institutions at Malacañang.

The President issued the statement amid ongoing investigations into multibillion-peso anomalous flood control projects.

In addition to their duty as the nation’s protectors, the military also has the responsibility of safeguarding public resources, Marcos said.

“Be among those who ensure that every peso translates into capability, preparedness and integrity,” he said.

Marcos emphasized his administration’s commitment to uphold the welfare of the country’s uniformed personnel with the recent signing of the P6.793-trillion national budget for this year.

He cited his order in December updating the base pay schedule and increasing the subsistence allowance for military and uniformed personnel.

“Your higher rank demands sharper judgment and steadier leadership, especially in an era of complex threats, rising geopolitical tension, and heightened security concerns for our country,” the President said.