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Michael Punongbayan - The Philippine Star
January 1, 2026 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. offered a snappy salute to each other soldier yesterday in recognition of the unity, professionalism and resilience they have shown during the year.
In a New Year message, he said welcoming 2026 gives the military the opportunity to “take a moment to reflect on the challenges we have faced, the victories we have achieved and the lessons we have learned together as one Armed Forces of the Philippines.”
“The past year tested our resilience, but your dedication, courage and professionalism once again proved that the men and women of the AFP are steadfast defenders of our nation,” Brawner said.
He did not specifically mention the challenges he was referring to but in 2025, the military was repeatedly subjected to political pressures because of the growing public outrage against corruption in government triggered by flood control and other infrastructure project anomalies.
Throughout the year, the military was also challenged in professionally handling issues surrounding the West Philippine Sea and China’s continuing incursions and harassment of Philippine vessels in the region.
“Our service is not measured solely by operational successes, but by the discipline, integrity and commitment that define each of us in our daily duties,” Brawner said.
“True strength comes from unity, unwavering purpose and the steady effort to improve ourselves and our organization every day,” he added.
“In the year ahead, let us renew our commitment to the ideals that guide our service: unity within our ranks and with our partners across the nation, professionalism in every action we take, resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering focus on serving the Filipino people,” Brawner declared.
