AFP chief hails Special Forces’ adaptability on 63rd anniversary

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. touted the "continued excellence, adaptability, and future-ready posture” of the Philippine Army's Special Forces Regiment (Airborne) during its 63rd founding anniversary on Saturday.

Brawner, himself a former Special Forces operator, highlighted the evolving nature of modern warfare, emphasizing the need for adaptability amid emerging threats.

“The world is changing rapidly,” he stressed during his address to the troops.

Brawner noted that warfare now spans multiple domains beyond traditional combat. He stressed that threats no longer come solely from armed conflict but also through cyberattacks and information warfare.

“We are living in an era of multi-domain warfare where threats come not only with bullets but with bytes and broadcasts,” he said.

He underscored the Special Forces' enduring relevance, describing them as inherently adaptable.

“We were born to be agile and adaptable,” he added.
“From unconventional warfare to riverine operations, from intelligence gathering to influence shaping, the Special Forces remain our sharpest edge, our quiet strength.”

The anniversary program included a wreath-laying ceremony at the AFP Special Operations Command Memorial to honor fallen Special Forces personnel.

It was followed by a capability demonstration held by the Special Forces School.

Brawner also graced the recognition of outstanding officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian stakeholders for their exemplary service.

A blessing ceremony was likewise held at the drop zone marker named after MGen. Jose P. Magno Jr. (Ret.), a pioneer of the Special Forces and early paratrooper leader.

The event was attended by senior military officials, including Brig. Gen. Rosendo C. Abad Jr., current commander of the Special Forces Regiment; Maj. Gen. Ferdinand B. Napuli, Philippine Army Inspector General and former commander of the regiment; and Maj. Gen. Joseph Norwin D. Pasamonte, commander of the 7th Infantry Division.

Further, Brawner outlined the military’s modernization goals for the unit, including joint interoperability and international cooperation.

“We are building future-ready Special Forces — capable of operating on land, at sea, in cyberspace, and beyond,” he said.