President Ferdinand Marcos expressed his administration’s dedication to modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), aiming to transform it into a “world-class force” that embodies national pride and security.
“We will modernize your equipment, enhance your training programs, ensure that you are equipped to face challenges not just of today but also of the future,” Mr. Marcos said during the joint graduation ceremony of the Major Services Officer Candidate Course (MS OCC) on Friday.
“Together, we will build an AFP that will stand as a beacon of strength, of alliance, resilience, and technological excellence,” he added.
President Marcos emphasized that the transformation of the AFP will begin with its people—its talents, specialists, and leaders—who will bridge the gap between tradition and innovation. He expressed gratitude to the graduates for answering the call to serve the nation.
“To the Philippine Army class, ‘Katarakian,’ Philippine Navy class, ‘Mangisalakan’—it is becoming increasingly difficult to find a class as you have all been outpaced, but you are showing very good imagination with all of this—Air Force class, ‘Sigmandigan,’ congratulations to all of you on your graduation!” Mr. Marcos said.
The MS OCC is a one-year program designed to commission baccalaureate degree holders as officers in the AFP.
Graduates are trained for leadership roles in the Philippine Army, Navy, and Air Force, with a focus on basic military training, officer development, warfighting, and specialized fields aligned with their respective branches.
This initiative, launched in 2013 as part of the AFP Transformation Roadmap, aims to foster a joint force culture among the service branches. The roadmap envisions a modernized AFP capable of addressing both traditional and emerging threats.
In his closing remarks, the President called for collective action to build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Philippines.
The ceremony underscored the administration’s long-term vision to prepare the AFP for the challenges of the future while honoring its role as a cornerstone of national security.