PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on Wednesday urged newly promoted generals and flag officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to bolster the country’s defenses against both internal and external challenges, warning of disinformation campaigns, radicalization, and heightened regional security tensions. Speaking at a ceremony in Malacañang, he administered the oath of office to 29 newly promoted generals and flag officers, along with 14 newly commissioned second lieutenants and ensigns trained at foreign military academies. The President said their new ranks carry not just authority but also the “weight of the people’s trust.”“As we strengthen our external defense, we must always remain vigilant within,” he said, according to a transcript from his office. He also cited the Philippines’ expanded participation in joint military drills such as Balikatan, ALON, and the recent Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activities with the US, Australia, Canada, and India. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana