The Philippine Army’s modernization thrust is on track, its top brass said.
Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy Galido shared and described the development of the program during an interview with reporters.
The Army stated that the programs will bolster its shift to territorial defense and help fulfill its vital land defense role under the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC).
Lt. Gen. Galido also outlined the Army’s achievements in 2024, which include the acquisition of modern defense assets under the AFP Revised Modernization Program, now entering its third and final phase.
The Army Chief emphasized that these capabilities will enhance the Army’s readiness to defend national sovereignty and respond effectively to both traditional and non-traditional threats.
He also underscored the importance of bilateral activities with the U.S. and other like-minded partner nations in the Indo-Pacific Region.
Additionally, the Army Chief noted that multilateral and bilateral training exercises, such as the annual Salaknib and Balikatan, have strengthened interoperability with foreign armed forces and enhanced the Army’s ability to operate in complex environments.
“Our modernization is not just about meeting deadlines; it is about building a capable, disciplined, and professional land force that the Filipino people can trust,” he said.
He added that the continued acquisition of modern defense systems depends on the strategic priorities of higher headquarters and national leadership.
Regarding the Army’s internal security operations, he emphasized that the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) now poses an insignificant threat to the country, citing a dramatic reduction in active guerrilla fronts from seven at the start of the year to just one before year-end.
Looking ahead to 2025, Lt. Gen. Galido expressed optimism that the Philippine Army will continue to fulfill its role as a reliable, relevant, and responsive force provider to the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
