Manila, Jan. 7 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to serve not only as defenders of the nation but also as faithful guardians of public funds, stressing accountability as the military undergoes modernization.

Marcos administered the oath of office to 38 newly promoted AFP generals and flag officers, along with one graduate of the Foreign Pre-Commissioned Training Institutions (FPCTI), during a ceremony at Malacanan Palace.

In his speech, the President commended the AFP's focus on readiness and modernization while underscoring the importance of integrity in the use of public resources, especially following the signing of the 2026 national budget.

"With the signing of the...