Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Friday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to military modernization, operational readiness, and troop welfare during the 45th founding anniversary celebration of the 5th Infantry Division at Camp Melchor F. Dela Cruz in Isabela.
The celebration, themed “Modernizing Forces, Strengthening External Security,” highlighted the division’s role in territorial defense, peace and development efforts, and external security operations in Northern Luzon.
In his speech, Teodoro commended the division for its gains in internal security operations and its participation in joint military exercises with foreign partners.
“I congratulate the 5th Infantry Division not only for its achievements in internal security operations, but also for your performance in the numerous multilateral and bilateral exercises that have happened and are going to happen throughout the year,” Teodoro said.
The defense chief stressed that strengthening national defense requires sustained investment, resilience, and preparedness amid evolving security challenges.
“National defense is not a free dividend. It is a price. Peace is not a free dividend. It’s a price that has to be paid for by a combination of resilience, strength, and diplomacy,” he said.
Teodoro also highlighted ongoing reforms within the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including improvements in military education, promotions, personnel welfare, and mental health support systems.
The event also underscored the improving security situation in Northern Luzon, with Region II now declared insurgency-free following sustained operations against Communist Terrorist Groups and strengthened cooperation among the military, local governments, and other agencies.
During the anniversary program, Teodoro witnessed capability demonstrations, the unveiling of the division’s Tactical Operations Center, and military equipment displays aimed at showcasing the Philippine Army’s growing operational readiness.
Also present during the event were Maj. Gen. Gulliver Señires, Maj. Gen. Efren Morados, Rodolfo Albano III, senior officials from the Department of National Defense and AFP, as well as representatives from the Philippine National Police and the Office of Civil Defense.