By Darryl John Esguerra
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday directed the Philippine Army (PA) to accelerate its transition toward external defense and build a force capable of defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Speaking at the 68th Philippine Army change-of-command ceremony in Taguig City, Marcos tasked newly installed Commanding General Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran to ensure the service can secure the land domain, support joint operations, and contribute fully to territorial defense.
“You take command as the Army continues the transition towards external defense. Build a force capable of securing the land domain, supporting joint operations, and contributing fully to defending our sovereignty and asserting our territorial integrity,” Marcos said.
He also directed Gumiran to ensure that Army forces can deploy rapidly, sustain operations, and respond decisively wherever required.
The directive comes as the Philippines strengthens its territorial defense capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges, including tensions in the West Philippine Sea and growing defense cooperation with treaty allies and strategic partners.
Marcos said the Army’s transition must be accompanied by continued modernization and improved operational readiness.
He stressed the need to keep soldiers prepared for nontraditional security threats, particularly disasters, as the country continues to experience severe weather disturbances.
“Especially now, as many of our communities confront heavy monsoon rains and other calamities. Keep the Army ready to support search, rescue and relief operations,” Marcos said.
“Be prepared to reach isolated communities, bring families to safety, deliver food and other essential supplies.”
Gumiran assumed command of the Army from Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, now the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Marcos commended Nafarrete for strengthening the Army’s readiness for internal and external security, advancing modernization and reserve force development, deepening cooperation with international partners, and expanding programs for troop welfare and mental health.
Gumiran brings extensive command experience to the Army’s top post, including frontline assignments from the platoon level and his previous leadership of the Western Mindanao Command.
He also has overseas experience and completed studies at the United States Army War College in Pennsylvania.
Discipline, integrity
Marcos reminded the new Army chief to lead with discipline and integrity and ensure that all personnel remain aligned with the country’s defense priorities.
“Uphold the constitution. Protect the trust of the Filipino people,” the President said.
He underscored that military modernization must go hand in hand with investments in the welfare of soldiers and their families.
“Equipment can be modernized. Tactics can be refined. But it is our people who carry the mission, who hold the line, and will give meaning to every gain we make as a force,” Marcos said.
The President assured the Army that the government would continue investing in its capabilities while supporting programs aimed at safeguarding the welfare of soldiers and their families.
“To the men and women of the Philippine Army, whether you are defending our territory, securing our communities, or responding to disasters, the nation continues to depend on your readiness and courage,” Marcos said. (With a report from Priam F. Nepomuceno/PNA)
