FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Philippine Army strengthens external defense as it marks its 128th founding anniversary, showcasing its capabilities and reaffirming its commitment to national security in a ceremony at Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, on March 22, 2025.
A combined arms operation demonstration highlighted the event, witnessed by President and Commander-in-Chief Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The demonstration featured troop assemblies in Jamindan, Capiz; Kibaritan, Bukidnon; and other key areas, emphasizing the Army’s large-scale deployment and command-and-control capabilities.
Army Chief Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido underscored the Army’s transition from internal security to external defense operations, citing the diminishing communist and terrorist threats within Philippine borders.
He emphasized the Army’s role in protecting national sovereignty, aligning with the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept to enhance coordination with the Navy and Air Force.
The Army has undergone restructuring, including the activation of the Combat Engineer Regiment to protect strategic locations, the revitalization of reserve forces, and the establishment of specialized seaborne and air defense units to extend operational reach.
Infantry battalions have been reconfigured to be lighter and more mobile, while reconnaissance capabilities have been upgraded.
The Army’s large-scale mobilization exercise, Exercise Katihan, tested its ability to rapidly deploy forces across the country in crisis scenarios.
The Army Chief also highlighted the “One Recruitment Program,” ensuring only the most capable applicants join the force while promoting gender equality, with over 200 female officers now leading Army units nationwide.
Honoring fallen soldiers, Lt. Gen. Galido paid tribute to 26 troops who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
He then reaffirmed the Army’s readiness to defend Philippine sovereignty, stating, “Our mission is clear. We are here to fight if we must, to defend what is ours, and to ensure that no adversary—foreign or domestic—threatens our sovereignty.”
President Marcos lauded the Army’s resilience and ordered the 110,000-strong force to continue refining its skills and embracing innovation. “The Philippine Army’s strength extends beyond firepower. It draws from its personnel’s honor, integrity, and fortitude,” the President said.
Vice President Sara Z. Duterte and Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro also extended their anniversary greetings under the theme “Matatag na Sandigan ng Bagong Pilipinas.”
During the event, President Marcos awarded the Distinguished Conduct Star to Maj. Jestoni V. Labarosa for gallantry in action in Zamboanga Sibugay, while Gold Cross Medals were given to Cpt. Dexter S. Dauan and Sgt. Raymund L. Causing for their valor in military operations in Negros Occidental and Maguindanao del Sur.