Steps underway to develop territorial defense capability – AFP

From the Manila Times (Dec 18): Steps underway to develop territorial defense capability – AFP

As the Armed Forces of the Philippines celebrate its 79th founding anniversary today, Dec. 18, AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang said that steps are underway to develop their territorial defense capability.

“In the middle of an evolving regional security architecture that is increasingly volatile and uncertain, it is imperative for the AFP to develop its territorial defense capability. It is important that we adjust our defense structures and synchronize our systems and processes in order to shape an Armed Force capable of providing a credible defense posture, ” he added.

Catapang also said that the necessary adjustments are now being made in the AFP’s modernization efforts.

” We have identified the capability gaps and have laid down the capability requirements for the three horizons of the AFP modernization. We came up with some approaches on how our funding requirements will be addressed,” the AFP chief pointed out.

He added that this can be demostrated by the fact that by year, the AFP will receive 28 armored vehicles, three medium lift and two light lift aircraft, eight combat utility helicopters, eight attack and two naval helicopters, 10 amphibious vehicle and hopefully two fighter planes next year.

“We in the AFP publicly thank and praise our President, our Commander in Chief, Benigno S. Aquino III for his strong commitment and support to the AFP modernization program.

On the other hand, Catapang said that through the AFP Transformation Roadmap, we will continue to pursue reform initiatives within the framework of security sector reform by institutionalizing the principle of good governance in partnership with the Multi-Sectoral Governance Council headed by Dr. Jesus Estanislao.

“I am confident that the direction that we are undertaking will make the AFP more responsive and responsible as a modern armed force — an institution that is capable of defending our territory through a multi-tiered defense approach; of protecting the safety of the people through intensified stakeholder engagement; and of furthering our national and regional agenda through enhanced and sustained global partnerships. We will be prepared to address the challenges of the 21st century,” Catapang stressed.

http://www.manilatimes.net/breaking_news/steps-underway-develop-territorial-defense-capability-afp/