President Aquino Thanks AFP, Urges Improved Capability

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday urged the Armed Forces to continuously improve capabilities in carrying out their duties, as he thanked them for their service to the country for the last six years.

During the testimonial parade and review given by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in his honor, the President recognized the hard work and dedication the military officers put in their jobs especially in times of need.

“Kaya naman po, sa ngalan ng bawat kababayan nating naisalba, natulungan, o napanatag ninyo ang loob: Maraming, maraming salamat,” President Aquino said in his address as commander-in-chief.

Despite their success, the President is confident that military officers will not be complacent.

“Halimbawa na lang, sa isang sagupaan. Pag natalo ang isang hanay, responsibilidad ng pinuno na pag-aralan ang nangyari. Saan ba tayo nagkamali? Ito ang kailangan nating iwasto. Saan ba tayo nagkulang? Ito naman ang kailangan nating punuan. Ang magaling na pinuno, tinitingnan ang nagtapos nang laban, pero nakahanda na’t nakatutok para sa darating pang mga laban,” he added.

The Chief Executive also asked military personnel to have courage and affirmation as they also pursue strategy and innovation.

“Ang panawagan sa atin: Bawat misyon na inyong haharapin, nawa’y pag-aralan ito nang husto, anumang larangan o ranggo ninyo, upang magbukas ng panibagong mga pagsipat at pag-unawa. Alalahanin ninyo na anuman ang kalagayan ng ating mga sistema, maaring pagandahin pa ito lalo,” he said.

Further, President Aquino also cited military modernization achievements during his six years in office.

“Sa nagdaang anim na taon, para sa inyong modernisasyon, nakapaglaan na tayo ng suma-total, 65.89 bilyong piso at nakapagkumpleto ng 70 proyekto. Malayong-malayo ito sa 45 kabuuang bilang ng mga proyektong naipatupad sa nagdaang tatlong administrasyon, na nagkakahalagang 31.75 bilyong piso,” he added. (PNA) RMA/LDV