President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered newly appointed Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Donald Gumiran to build a strong force capable of defending the country’s sovereignty and responding quickly to disasters.
Speaking at the Army change of command ceremony, Marcos said the force must strengthen its role in external defense, joint operations, and territorial security.
He also urged the Army to remain ready for search, rescue, and relief operations amid monsoon rains and other calamities.
Marcos called on Gumiran to lead with discipline and integrity while upholding the Constitution and public trust.
Gumiran, a former Western Mindanao Command chief and US Army War College graduate, replaced Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, who now leads the AFP.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 13, 2026
MARCOS CALLS FOR ARMY FOCUSED ON SECURITY, EMERGENCIES
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