Military chief of staff Gen. Carlito Galvez on Thursday hailed the gallantry of the Philippine Marines, the most feared but professional fighting force instrumental in defeating the enemies of the state.
At the 68th anniversary of the Philippine Marine Corps at the Marine Headquarters in Taguig City, Galvez saluted the courage and bravery of the Marines in turning the battle against potential enemies to protect the sanctity of the state.
“Truly, the Philippine Marine Corps has done and been doing so much in carrying out our Internal Security Operations forward, particularly in defeating the enemies of our Republic and projecting a trustworthy image of the military institution,” Galvez said.
Galvez particularly acknowledged the sacrifices of the 35 fallen Marines, who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of Marawi City in the five months battle following an invasion of terrorists in the Islamic City in 2017.
“Today is a unique holiday for warriors. Throughout the world, we celebrate the birth of the Marine Corps—one of the most loyal, most feared, most revered, and most professional fighting force the world has ever known,” said Galvez in his remarks.
Marines fought side-by-side with other security forces in Marawi City to defeat terrorists, led by the Abu Sayyaf backed by Maute group bandits after they occupied the City and sowed violence for five months, claming the lives of hundreds of soldiers and civilians.
Galvez said the AFP had intensified its offensives in pursuit of terrorist and lawless elements which sow havoc on Filipinos.
“We are very keen on our intent to once and for all defeat these enemies of the State and end their senseless violence that claimed the lives of many Filipinos; some of them are our comrades-in-arms who offered the ultimate sacrifice,” he said.
“We will never allow their heroism to be put in vain. We may have been disheartened by our loss, but we emerge as stronger and more inspired soldiers because of their greatness,” Galvez added.
Galvez along with Philippine Marines Commandant Maj. Gen. Alvin Parreno and Philippine Navy Chief Rear Adm. Robert Empedrad gave medals, plaques of appreciation, awards and commendation to outstanding military personnel, civilian employees, and other honorees during the celebration.
“The AFP will fully support the Philippine Marine Corps as you continue to realize your aspiration to modernize in order to achieve your vision of becoming one of the AFP’s premier forces in readiness and the nation’s force of choice,” Galvez added.