MANILA – In his New Year’s message, Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. expressed optimism about the future, envisioning the Philippines as a secure and climate-resilient nation by 2025. He described the country as an archipelagic state ready to play a significant role on the global stage and serve as a stable foundation for national development and progress.
Teodoro conveyed a sense of hopeful anticipation for the coming year, reflecting on the challenges and victories of 2024. He acknowledged that the past year was fraught with difficulties, yet it also brought moments of success and gratitude. The Philippines, he noted, navigated through both natural disasters and threats to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The resilience demonstrated by the nation in overcoming these challenges was attributed to the commitment of military personnel, civil defense officers, and first responders. Teodoro also highlighted the importance of strong defense partnerships, government support, and the steadfast spirit of the Filipino people in achieving these triumphs.