MANILA, Philippines — Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. has ordered the expansion of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Direct Commission Program to recruit more civilian professionals with specialized skills as the military modernizes its capabilities.
Defense Department spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said Saturday the expanded program aims to address the AFP’s growing need for experts in cyber operations, artificial intelligence, engineering, computer science and other science and technology fields.
“The battlefield is becoming digital,” Andolong said, explaining that modern warfare requires personnel capable of operating and developing increasingly sophisticated defense systems.
Under the Direct Commission Program, qualified civilian professionals may join the military as commissioned officers with ranks assigned under AFP regulations.
Andolong said the initiative seeks to strengthen the AFP’s cyber warfare capabilities and support the military’s modernization program and Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept. He cited the Philippine Air Force’s transition to FA-50 light fighter aircraft as an example of the need for technically trained personnel to operate advanced military platforms.
The defense official also said the program seeks to attract talented Filipinos, including ethical hackers, to help protect the country’s digital infrastructure.
“There are ethical hackers and there are malevolent hackers,” Andolong said. “Secretary [Teodoro] wants to harness their talent for the country.”
He added that physical attributes may not be the deciding factor for applicants in highly technical fields, although all recruits will still undergo security vetting, medical examinations and other screening requirements.
The AFP is preparing recommendations on implementing the expanded program, including possible adjustments to existing qualification requirements. No recruitment target, budget or implementation timeline has been announced, although the Defense Department aims to roll out the program before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s term ends in 2028.
