AFP opens year with security, modernization gains

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) capped 2025 with major gains in internal security, modernization, disaster response, and international defense cooperation, signaling a steady progress toward a more capable and agile military force in 2026.

In its year-end assessment, the AFP reported the continued weakening of the communist rebels, attributing its gains to focused military operations, strengthened community engagement, and close coordination with partner agencies.

More than 2,000 rebels were neutralized during the year, with over 1,500 firearms seized. Local terrorist groups, or LTGs, likewise suffered major setbacks with 275 members neutralized and more than 300 firearms recovered. 

Beyond combat operations, the AFP played a critical role in humanitarian assistance and disaster response throughout the year. 

Modernization efforts also accelerated in 2025. The Philippine Air Force received additional SF-260 training aircraft and commissioned 10 new S-70 Black Hawk helicopters. 

The Philippine Navy expanded its fleet with the commissioning of two guided-missile frigates — the BRP Miguel Malvar and the BRP Diego Silang — and a locally assembled Fast Attack Interdiction Craft. 

On land, the Philippine Army activated its first Ground-Launched Missile Battalion, while the Philippine Marine Corps unveiled its inaugural BrahMos shore-based anti-ship missile battery.

The AFP also reported advances in cyber defense, intelligence, surveillance, and human resource development to support multi-domain operations.

International defense cooperation deepened through large-scale exercises and maritime engagements, including Exercise Balikatan 2025 with the United States, Australia and Japan.