The Philippine Marine Corps in Palawan marked a post-birthday celebration of its 74th founding anniversary on November 27 with a solemn and festive event at the Citystate Asturias Hotel, attended by military leaders, Marine veterans, local government officials, and other stakeholders.
While the Corps’ official founding anniversary is observed on November 7, the gathering reflected on decades of service, tradition, and the enduring commitment of the Marines to the nation.
In his address, Brigadier General Antonio Mangoroban Jr., commander of the 3rd Marine Brigade, highlighted the Corps’ legacy of readiness and adaptability.
He paid tribute to the Marines’ history, tracing their roots back to pivotal operations such as the fight against communist insurgents in Nueva Ecija and the iconic beach landings in Quezon.
“For 74 years, we have stood ready to answer the call to protect our beloved nation against any form of threat, domestic or foreign,” Mangoroban said. He emphasized the Corps’ continued presence on the fringes of the country’s territory, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, while sustaining gains in counterinsurgency efforts in Palawan through community engagement and empowerment activities.
He urged his fellow Marines to strive for continuous self-improvement and uphold the traditions of excellence and dependability that have defined the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC).
“We aspire to be a better version of ourselves every day, to remain the most ready force the nation can rely on,” he added.
Major General Arturo Rojas, commandant of the PMC, lauded the contributions of the 3rd Marine Brigade to peace and stability in Palawan, which remains insurgency-free.
He recognized the Brigade’s role in fostering strong relationships with local government units and other stakeholders, describing these collaborations as crucial to regional security and development.
Rojas also shared a message from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., delivered during the Marine Corps’ November 7 celebration, which underscored the importance of modernization and transformation into a specialized littoral defense force.
The President acknowledged the sacrifices of the Marines and their readiness to address both traditional and emerging threats, reaffirming his administration’s support for the Corps.
“This mindset of adaptability and discipline is our greatest strength,” Rojas said, urging Marines to embody the values of honor, duty, and valor in their service.
He also paid tribute to fallen comrades, including Staff Sergeant Cesar Barlas of Palawan, whose heroism in Brooke’s Point earned him the Medal of Valor.
The evening’s highlights included a presentation on the Brigade’s achievements over the past year, the awarding of mementos, and the ceremonial cake cutting to honor the Corps’ birthday.
Rojas also commended the successful hosting of the 2nd Squad Challenge in Puerto Princesa, which showcased camaraderie and teamwork among participants from various units, including the U.S. Marine Corps.
Rojas encouraged the Corps to continue its tradition of excellence while embracing innovation and modernization to meet future challenges.
“The chapters of our history are written in blood, sweat, and tears,” he said. “Today, we shape the next chapter with unwavering service and enduring commitment to our people,” the commandant said.
