The Philippine Army affirmed its commitment to "Bagong Pilipinas" during the 127th Philippine Army Foundation Day which also marked the culmination of Exercise Katihan at the Makabulos Grandstand, Training and Doctrine Command, Camp O’Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on March 22, 2024.
“Celebrating our Army anniversary in the location where we train our troops to become professional soldiers is the first and most tangible adjustment that you are all witnessing right now,” Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido said in his remarks during the program which is anchored on the theme “Matatag na Hukbong Katihan para sa Bagong Pilipinas.”
A showcase of airborne and military free fall capabilities of Special Forces operators kickstarted and culminated the program attended by Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. who represented the Commander in Chief and President, His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr; the military top brass, Medal for Valor awardees, former Army commanding generals, government officials, as well as foreign defense attaches.
The Philippine Army's Arnis exhibition group also displayed their combative prowess and self-defense confidence as they perform the said Filipino martial art during the program which was livestreamed to all Army units nationwide. Various Army units likewise showcased their latest and current ground defense assets such as the 155mm self-propelled howitzers, Sabrah light tanks, armored personnel carriers as well as combat engineer equipment.
“We want to underscore that the Army is moving beyond the expected ways, that we prefer today to celebrate our anniversary with our troops who are training to fight, preparing their minds and bodies to defend our country at all costs from those who will dare to disrupt our freedom,” Lt. Gen. Galido remarked.
Photos by Cpl. Rodgen V. Quirante PA/OACPA