MANILA - The Presidential Security Group (PSG) has another mandate aside from protecting the first family of the Philippines and foreign dignitaries, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said on Monday.

During the change of command ceremony for outgoing PSG Commander, Brig. Gen. Randolph Cabangbang in Malacanang Park, Marcos reminded the PSG of their mandate of protecting the institution of the presidency.

"The mission of the Presidential Security Group goes beyond the stated mission of protecting the First Family and foreign dignitaries who come to visit with us. What you are guarding is not only the personages of the First Family but you are guarding and keeping safe an institution, the institution of the presidency," he said in his speech.

Marcos said failing to carry out their mission would mean the collapse of the institution which would also put the country in a "dire" situation.

"And that is why we only pick the best men and women that we have within our military to join the Presidential Security Group," he added.

He said he looked forward to working with the PSG in the coming months and thanked troopers for "the many valiant efforts in the performance of their duties."

"Each and every one of you has shown undaunted courage and unbridled patriotism by choosing to be of service to our beloved country. With integrity and valor, let us remain united in safeguarding our institutions as it strives to bring about a more secure, peaceful, and dignified life for Filipino people," he said.

Meanwhile, he also congratulated Cabangbang for his extremely "successful tour of duty" as the outgoing PSG commander.

"Under his steady and unwavering leadership, the PSG was able to provide security for the First Family. I also laud Brigadier General Cabangbang for taking steps towards ensuring the completion of several key PSG facilities including the PSG Station Hospital and the Women's Auxiliary Corps barracks. The completion of these key infrastructures will certainly help strengthen the PSG. It will also inspire the entire PSG to strive for excellence whatever their position may be," he said.

He also enjoined new PSG Commander, Col. Ramon Zagala to step up to the challenge of being the next leader of the PSG.

"I trust that under your leadership, the PSG will be able to continue the excellent provision of security to the Office of the President and the First Family as well as visiting heads of state and diplomats," he added.

Prior to being named new PSG commander, Zagala was spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

He also served as commander of the 28th Infantry "Kamagong" Battalion, 10th Infantry (Agila) Division and assistant chief of staff for civil military operations of the 10th Infantry "Agila" Division.

Zagala is a graduate of the AFP Training Center Officer Candidate School "Balikatan Class of 12" in 1994.

He belongs to a family rich in military tradition spanning three generations-from his grandfather, Col. Ramon Zagala to his father Maj. Gen. Rafael Zagala.

He holds a degree in AB Political Science from the De La Salle University in Manila and a Master's degree in Military and Defense Studies in Australia. (PNA)