Brawner says SRDP key to stronger military

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. PA said the key to strengthening the country’s military capability lies in Republic Act 12024, or the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Act.

During the culminating activity of the first-ever Drone Warfare Summit 2025 at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center (SBECC) in Subic Bay Freeport on 29 October 2025, Brawner said boosting domestic production of defense equipment can enhance the Philippines’ military capabilities.

He cited the Drone Warfare Summit 2025, organized by the Philippine Navy, as proof that Filipinos are capable of producing high-tech equipment to strengthen national defense.

“The live demonstrations, technical briefings, and meaningful conversations set a new standard for how we modernize our military. This summit clearly shows that our Self-Reliant Defense Posture is no longer just a goal, it is becoming a reality,” he said.

He added that by using locally built unmanned and autonomous systems alongside international technology, “we reduce our dependence on others and become stronger and more independent.”

Brawner capped the three-day summit showcasing cutting-edge technology and naval innovation spearheaded by the Philippine Fleet (PF) in collaboration with Defense Expo Philippines.

Joining him were PF Commander Rear Admiral Joe Anthony C. Orbe PN, other AFP flag and general officers, and key defense officials and staff.

The PN Drone Warfare Summit is part of the Fleet Expo Series, which began with the Philippine Fleet Defense Expo 2023. That landmark event planted the seeds of the SRDP, followed by the Asymmetric Warfare Symposium 2024, which highlighted innovations in undersea, mine, cyber, and electronic warfare. These strategies demonstrate how smaller forces can leverage advanced technology to prevail against larger adversaries, a principle now extending to Drone Warfare.

As the PN Drone Warfare Summit 2025 concludes, the Philippine Navy reaffirmed its commitment to a self-reliant and modern force. The summit underscored that modernization goes beyond technology—it is about people, purpose, and partnerships. Charting a drone-enabled, multi-domain future, the Navy calls on every sailor, stakeholder, and partner to remain steadfast in advancing innovation and operational excellence in pursuit of a credible and multi-capable maritime defense force.