Gibo pushes faster AFP modernization to counter new threats

The Philippines is pushing to accelerate the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in response to evolving security challenges, both traditional and emerging, according to Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro. 

In a post-SONA conference in San Juan City, Teodoro emphasized that the AFP modernization, currently structured under a 15-year timeline, requires congressional amendments to allow for more agile and responsive upgrades, as equipment often becomes obsolete in far less time.

“Tuluy-tuloy po ang modernization at lalo pa nating ninanais na bumilis ito… nag-o-obsolete ang mga kagamitan in a much shorter time (We are continuing our modernization and we are expediting our efforts… our assets became obsolete in a much shorter time),” he said.

The modernization effort, the Defense chief explained, is not limited to procuring high-tech defense systems, but includes preparing infrastructure such as operational bases to support these new systems—particularly for maritime operations. 

This, as the Philippines asserts control over two million square kilometers of its maritime territory.

Teodoro cited a recent success by the Philippine Navy in intercepting one ton of smuggled goods as part of a six-ton haul in cooperation with other agencies. He underscored the importance of a broadened operational scope and a more capable force.

Teodoro also highlighted the evolving nature of threats, from traditional military concerns to asymmetric and hybrid threats such as cyberattacks. 

He then stressed the increasing pace of technological obsolescence, warning that in some conflict zones, the shelf life of cyber tools can be as short as three months due to advancements in artificial intelligence and surveillance.

Expanded defense efforts

In response to both man-made and natural disasters, Teodoro reiterated the Armed Forces’ essential role in "heavy lifting" operations, especially in remote areas, while agencies like the Philippine National Police, Coast Guard, and Bureau of Fire Protection handle front-line response.

Comparing the Philippine military with neighboring countries, Teodoro called attention to the AFP’s relatively small size — approximately 162,000 personnel — versus countries like Thailand, which has around 360,000 armed forces members, excluding police. 

He stressed that an increase in personnel is necessary to ensure peace and deterrence across the archipelago.

Aside from military preparedness, Teodoro underscored the Department of National Defense (DND)’s commitment to veterans’ welfare. 

He cited the rollout of 15 VALOR clinics nationwide to provide decentralized medical services for veterans. 

Plans are also in place to modernize the aging Veterans Memorial Medical Center into a high-quality tertiary care facility and establish dedicated hospices for veterans who lack family support.

The modernization extends to other defense components, including the Government Arsenal, which is being upgraded to improve the local production of munitions and firearms in the country. 

Disaster preparedness

Meanwhile, Teodoro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) to improve disaster response and anticipate potential risks. 

With multiple agencies involved in national security, he emphasized the need for robust operational security to protect critical infrastructure from foreign interference.

“Hindi ko na babanggitin kung sino ang mga bansa [na may interes na pahinain tayo]… pero alam ninyo na kung sino iyon,” he said, without naming names.

The DND also aims to establish new strategic bases, particularly along maritime zones in the Pacific Ocean, as part of a strategic basing program that will extend beyond 2028 but must begin immediately.

Teodoro said the Philippines is also expanding international alliances to uphold international law and secure its rights over maritime resources, particularly in the disputed West Philippine Sea (WPS), a portion of the South China Sea, also being claimed by the Chinese government. 

He likewise noted that President Marcos has consistently emphasized that the country’s current investments in defense and diplomacy are not for short-term gain but for securing the future of the next generations.

“Sabi ng ating Pangulo: hindi ako nagpupundar para ngayon lamang kung hindi para sa kinabukasan,” Teodoro said, quoting  Marcos’s earlier remarks,

Echoing Teodoro, AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. said the Philippine military continues its modernization, with more assets set to come. 

“Dumating na po iyong bagong frigates natin. Mayroon na po tayong dalawang bagong corvettes. Parating na rin po iyong anim na offshore patrol vessels natin. Marami na po rin tayong mga mas maliliit pa na mga barko na dumating na (Frigates are arriving in the country, we have two corvettes. We also have more offshore patrols and vessels),” Brawner said. 

Brawner also touted the government’s ongoing efforts for the Self-Reliant Defense Posture.