President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed the Philippine Marines to remain on full alert as the country braces for Severe Tropical Storm Uwan, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fast-tracking the Marines’ modernization program to strengthen both disaster and defense readiness.
Speaking during the 75th founding anniversary of the Philippine Marine Corps in Parañaque City on Friday, Marcos emphasized the critical role of the Marines in protecting lives and communities amid the threat of another major weather disturbance following Typhoon Tino.
“We will once again rely on your readiness, your discipline, and your heart for service as we brace for the upcoming weather,” Marcos said.
“Help us secure our coasts, protect our people, rebuild our communities,” he added.
The President noted that Severe Tropical Storm Uwan is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and may hit Northern and Central Luzon in the coming days.
Marcos also highlighted the government’s continued investments in military modernization — including the construction of strategic bases and the development of advanced coastal and maritime surveillance systems.
“A Marine who answers the call must never face tomorrow with yesterday’s tools,” the President stressed. “Under my watch, we will continue to provide you the means to match the mandate that you bear.”
He further reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to troop welfare and family support, saying that morale is essential in maintaining the Marines’ strength and resilience.
“Sinisiguro ng inyong gobyerno na patuloy ang suporta, kalinga, at serbisyong nararapat para sa bawat Marine at kanilang pamilya,” Marcos said.
Marcos, who once trained with the Marine Basic Officer Course Class 01-79, also paid tribute to the corps’ valor and humanitarian service during disaster response operations, particularly in Palawan.
“Courage is your heartbeat. You are among the first to fight, you are the last to rest,” he said.
With Uwan threatening to bring severe weather to Luzon, Marcos underscored that the Marines’ courage and discipline remain at the core of the nation’s strength — whether in defending sovereignty or saving lives.