AFP identifies, improves gaps in security ops, peace programs

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 8, 2021): AFP identifies, improves gaps in security ops, peace programs (By Priam Nepomuceno)

UPHOLDING PEACE, SECURITY. AFP officials and members of its Multi-Sector Governance Council (MSGC) hold a virtual teleconference on Sept. 6, 2021. AFP chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. said on Wednesday (Sept. 8, 2021) the meeting focused on keeping track of AFP’s peace advocacy efforts and security operations. (Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office)

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is determined to identify and address gaps in its peace advocacy programs and security operations.

This came as military officials met with members of its Multi-Sector Governance Council (MSGC) via teleconferencing to keep track of the AFP’s efforts regarding peace advocacy against recruitment of terrorist groups; activities in the West Philippine Sea; and the normalization and demobilization of arms and forces last Sept. 6.

“The MSGC meeting highlighted the AFP’s resolute efforts to ensure that all its plans, projects, and programs are geared towards genuine transformation anchored on the ideals of transparency and public accountability,” AFP chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino Jr. said in a statement on Wednesday.

Faustino and the AFP Joint, Personal and Special staff joined the interactive forum that sought to identify crucial gaps and areas that need to be improved, or addressed by the military.
Faustino also headed the oathtaking of new MSGC members during the regular meeting.

The MSGC's newly-inducted members are retired AFP chief-of-staff Emmanuel Bautista who is now a trustee of the Institute for Solidarity in Asia; and Timothy Ijiran, President of Al Risalah Radio Zamboanga, Inc. and National President of the Islamic Development Bank Graduates Association.

The AFP MSGC is composed of distinguished advocates of good governance, transparency, and accountability chaired by Francisco Del Rosario Jr., Chairman of the Institute for Solidarity in Asia.

It serves as the AFP’s good governance partner that contributes to the judicious formulation and efficient implementation of the AFP’s policies and programs.

The monitoring mechanism was launched in 2014 in line with the military’s 15-year Transformation Roadmap, geared towards capability development and professionalization.

“We are looking forward to a stronger and more fruitful collaboration with MSGC as we aim to develop our capabilities to be a world-class armed forces that the country and the Filipino people can truly be proud of,” Faustino said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1152925