By Prince Golez
The Marines taught him camaraderie and brotherhood, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said during a speech marking the 72nd anniversary of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.
Marcos Jr. received special training from the Marines and Army in the 1970s.
“The Marines taught me that even if you think you cannot manage it, if you dig deep, you will be able to. That’s just one of the many, many lessons that I learned when I spent time with the Philippine Marine Corps and in the military,” the President said.
“The other invaluable lesson is the lesson of camaraderie, which I have not found anywhere else outside of the military. That form of camaraderie and brotherhood that is formed between people who live together, who fight together, who bleed together is a different kind of camaraderie, it is a different form of brotherhood,” he added.
Marcos Jr. also cited the roles the PMC played in the fight against insurgency and terrorism.
“I am one with the Filipino people to commend the accomplishments of the Marine Corps through the years, especially in securing and fostering peace and order in our country. It began when you fought the communist armed forces in the 1950s. You have also defended the nation from terrorist and separatist groups in the succeeding years,” according to him.
The Marines, he added, could also be relied on in times of crisis and disaster.
“Despite the challenges that you have endured and surpassed, you still proved to be courageous and resilient in helping our countrymen in times of emergencies and calamities.”
Marcos Jr. also assured that the government remains committed to enhancing the Marine Corps through the AFP modernization program.
“We will use the resources to provide each of you the support that will help you fulfill your responsibilities, realize your full potential, and to achieve success in your mission,” the chief executive said.
“As the leader of our nation and your Commander-in- Chief, I assure you of my full support for the continued success of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Marine Corps,” he concluded.
