The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it has fulfilled its mandate of protecting the people and securing the land with “solid achievements” this 2024.
AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. made the assessment during the celebration of the 89th founding anniversary of the AFP at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Friday, Dec. 20.
“As we celebrate the 89th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, we reaffirm our commitment to duty, integrity, and loyalty to the nation with unity in purpose,” he said,
The theme for this year’s celebration was “AFP at 89, Sandigan ng Bayan Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas”, which, according to Brawner, reminds the AFP of its “enduring role as the steadfast foundation of a nation determined to rise above its challenges and march toward progress, peace, and prosperity.”
“In 2024, the AFP continued to fulfill its mandate with solid achievements,” he stressed.
The event was graced by AFP Commander-in-Chief and President Marcos Jr. and Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr.
West Philippine Sea
In the West Philippine Sea, Brawner said the AFP has been undaunted in asserting the country’s sovereignty.
This, despite the continued aggression of China in the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
“With modernized tools and strategic international partnerships, we carry on in strengthening our maritime presence, securing our exclusive economic zone, and upholding the principles of international law,” he said.
At the heart of the WPS mission, according to Brawner, is the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), a visionary strategy that harmonizes military capabilities with the unique geographic realities of the Philippines, ensuring a robust and sustainable defense of the country’s maritime domain.
“This mission goes beyond defending territorial claims. It is about preserving ideals that define us as a nation,” he stressed.
Internal security
In internal security operations, Brawner said the AFP delivered decisive victories, declaring multiple provinces insurgency-free and transforming conflict-affected areas into vibrant hubs of opportunity and development.
At present, only one “weakened” guerilla front of the Communist Party of the Philippines – New People’s Army – National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) remain as the military aims to eliminate the threat of communist insurgency before the year ends.
“Through localized peace initiatives, we solidify our stand for lasting peace, a peace that empowers every Filipino to thrive in a secure and stable environment,” Brawner said.
Modernization program
Meanwhile, Brawner said that the AFP’s pursuit of progress is propelled by the ongoing modernization program, which brought cutting-edge technologies and advanced assets into the military’s arsenal.
Late last year, President Marcos Jr. approved the “Re-Horizon 3”, a revised P2-trillion military modernization initiative which aims to strengthen the country's defense capabilities through the procurement of modern and sophisticated assets such as ships, aircraft, radars, and C4ISTAR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) equipment.
“These upgrades, including enhanced maritime patrol capabilities and advanced surveillance systems, have significantly bolstered our readiness to address traditional and emerging threats,” Brawner said.
HADR operations
Beyond territorial defense, the AFP also stood at the forefront of humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) whenever calamities strike as Brawner recognized the 145,000-strong men and women of the AFP as well as the reserve forces.
“Despite the devastating impact of six typhoons – Kristine, Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel, and Pepito – making landfall in a span of one month, the AFP mobilized swiftly to protect lives and rebuild communities. Whether securing our sovereignty or extending a hand in times of need, we remain steadfast in our duty to the flag, the country, and the people,” the military chief said.
“Equally vital is the critical role of our reserve force, which has proven itself an indispensable partner in national defense and humanitarian missions. Together, we stand as one cohesive force, embodying professionalism and readiness in the face of any challenge,” he noted.