MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been instructed to ensure it can defend the nation for up to 30 days without external aid, AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. announced on Nov. 4.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued the directive to strengthen military readiness amid escalating tensions with China in the West Philippine Sea. The order emphasizes the need for the AFP to enhance self-reliance and modernization to address emerging threats.
General Brawner explained that the instruction highlights the importance of building sufficient capability to withstand a prolonged conflict before allies, particularly the United States, can extend assistance under the Mutual Defense Treaty.
The AFP is currently holding its annual joint exercises, AJEX DAGIT-PA, which involve coordinated drills among service branches focused on territorial defense. These exercises aim to integrate lessons from recent global conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, into local military strategy and operations.
General Brawner noted that the AFP’s modernization efforts are central to ensuring national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The initiative includes strategic planning, equipment upgrades, and enhanced coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
