MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has vowed to prioritize the modernization of Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and boost its defense capabilities. 

He said this in a speech at the PMC’s 74th anniversary celebration at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City on Thursday, November 7, 2024. 

The president honored the decades-long commitment of the Marines in promoting peace and security, protecting lives and asserting the country’s sovereignty. 

He also acknowledged the growing challenges in defending Philippine islands and protecting its shores, as he vowed to provide support in advancing the Marines' mandate. 

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"We are committed to building a stronger and more comprehensive defense posture by investing  in modern infrastructure, upgrading facilities, facilities that will boost your operations,” Marcos Jr. noted.

“We will continue to prioritize modernization ensuring that your defense capabilities align with our nation's strategic needs,” he said.

 Marcos Jr. also recalled the time that he trained as a Marine. 

“Joining this force transformed me in ways nothing outside of the military or of the marine corps could possibly have given me,” Marcos Jr. said.

Meanwhile, PMC Commandant Maj. Gen. Arturo Rojas also vowed to continue the Marines' commitment in serving the public especially in times of crisis.

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“The Filipino people will continue to expect and the nation will count on their marines to be the leading edge in humanitarian relief and disaster, recovery operations."

Marcos Jr. also conferred awards to exemplary members and led a cake-cutting ceremony.

Established on November 2, 1950, the PMC serves as the naval infantry force of the Philippine Navy.