A solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Marine Heroes' Monument in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City marked the 76th founding anniversary of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) on Thursday, November 5, 2026, with top military officials and families of fallen Marines gathering to pay their respects.
AFP Chief Leads Rites at the Marine Heroes' Monument
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Antonio G. Nafarrete presided over the ceremony, the AFP Public Affairs Office said in a press release dated November 5. Philippine Marine Corps Commandant Brigadier General Bob R. Apostol PN(M) received General Nafarrete at the monument to open the commemorative rites.
According to the AFP Public Affairs Office, both General Nafarrete and Brigadier General Apostol jointly rendered honors to the fallen Marines, with the AFP chief performing a formal salute at the monument. Families of Marines who died in service also took part, laying flowers as a personal tribute to their loved ones.
Ceremony Recognises Decades of Sacrifice and Dedication
The wreath-laying was held to honour the courage, sacrifice, and commitment shown by Filipino Marines throughout the corps' 76-year history, the AFP said in its statement. The AFP further described the legacy left behind by fallen Marines as an enduring source of inspiration for active personnel currently serving within the Philippine Marine Corps.
The AFP likewise reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the PMC's mandate of defending the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, according to the same AFP Public Affairs Office statement.
Institution Renews Commitment to Fallen Heroes
As part of the anniversary observance, the AFP said it was renewing its pledge to preserve and carry forward the legacy of its fallen heroes, ensuring their sacrifices remain part of the corps' institutional memory. The AFP Public Affairs Office statement did not describe any additional events held beyond the wreath-laying ceremony at Fort Bonifacio.
Source: AFP Public Affairs Office