GUEST COLUMNIST By Lt. Gen. AURELIO B. BALADAD (Ret) The Philippines finds itself at a crucial juncture regarding pension reform, particularly concerning the welfare of retired military and uniformed personnel (MUP). House Bill No. 8969, enacted on July 26, 2023, aims to address the...
GUEST COLUMNIST By Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos, AFP (Ret) Sept. 21, 2023, marks the 51st anniversary of the declaration of martial law, a momentous event that occurred half a century ago. Over this period, our country had undergone significant political transformations under different...
BARRACKS AND STRATEGY By Lt. Gen. AURELIO B. BALADAD (Ret) Nestled within the country’s scenic beauty, Southern Luzon has long held the promise of prosperity. Yet, it is the region's recent embrace of peace and security that has truly set the stage for development. As the region charters a...
GUEST COLUMNIST By Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos, AFP (Ret) Last July 21, 2023, the leadership of the AFP changed hands. Gen Andres Centino turned over the position to Gen Romeo Brawner Jr. Succession to the highest leadership of command is predicated on a new retirement law that gives a...
BARRACKS AND STRATEGY By Lt. Gen. Aurelio B. Baladad (Ret) As the CSAFP (Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines) was recently installed and a change of command for the CGPA (Commanding General Philippine Army) occurs today, a sense of excitement and hope permeates the ranks of...
BARRACKS AND STRATEGY *By Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos, AFP (Ret)* Golf is more than just a game; it embodies discipline and character development. Every swing, from tee-off to green, reveals how a player handles stress and pressure. Patience, persistence, and humility are key to achieving...
BARRACKS AND STRATEGY *By Lt. Gen. AURELIO B. BALADAD (Ret)* The current peace and order situation in Muslim Mindanao shows both progress and challenges. Although there have been significant advancements in recent years, the region still experiences occasional outbreaks of violence and...
BARRACKS AND STRATEGY By Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos, AFP (Ret) To enhance external defense capabilities, structural and institutional reforms are imperative. The military's mindset, which has been shaped by years of counterinsurgency operations, needs to evolve into a more enlightened version...
BARRACKS AND STRATEGY *By Lt. Gen. Aurelio B. Baladad (Ret)* As the 12th of June approaches, our hearts swell with pride and patriotic fervor. Our Independence serves as a poignant reminder of the indomitable spirit of our forefathers who valiantly fought against Spanish colonial rule. On this...
BARRACKS AND STRATEGY By  *Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos, AFP (Ret)* The Philippines has come into focus due to the increasing tension in the Taiwan Straits, leading to the establishment of new EDCA (Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement) sites in the Cagayan Valley Region. Recent news...
*BARRACKS AND STRATEGY * *By Lt. Gen. AURELIO B. BALADAD (Ret)* During the 126th Philippine Army (PA) Anniversary last March 22, 2023 at Fort Bonifacio, President Bongbong Marcos (PBBM) gave the order for the PA to be “fully prepared and capable for any contingencies, especially considering you...
BARRACKS AND STRATEGY By Lt. Gen. Jaime S. de los Santos, AFP (Ret) “Call, sir; may Fourth Classman Dela Cruz enter the room, sir!" This ritual ushers the entry of a plebe into the room of an upperclassman. It distinguishes the rights and privileges bestowed upon senior cadets. These perks,...
