Phl hastens AFP modernization amid rising security challenges

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

In a post-State of the Nation Address (SoNA) conference in San Juan City, Teodoro stressed that the AFP modernization, currently structured under a 15-year timeline, requires congressional amendments to allow for more agile and responsive upgrades, as military equipment often becomes obsolete in far less time.

“We are continuing our modernization and we are expediting our efforts... our assets became obsolete in a much shorter time,” Teodoro said.

The Defense chief explained that the modernization effort 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 comes 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, underscoring the importance of a broadened operational scope and a more capable force.

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

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 frontline response.