The Philippine Army is making significant progress in its modernization program, which aims to strengthen territorial and land-based defense capabilities under the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), according to Commanding General Lt. Gen. Roy Galido.
In a recent interview with reporters, Galido shared the Army’s milestones in 2024, including the acquisition of state-of-the-art defense assets under the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Revised Modernization Program, now entering its third and final phase.
“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,” Galido said.
He noted that military upgrades enhance the Army’s readiness to defend national sovereignty and address traditional and non-traditional security threats.
Galido also underscored the importance of international partnerships, citing multilateral and bilateral training exercises such as the annual Salaknib and Balikatan drills with the United States and other Indo-Pacific allies.
These activities, he said, have strengthened interoperability and improved the Army’s ability to operate in complex environments.
On internal security operations, Galido noted a significant decline in the threat posed by the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG), with active guerrilla fronts reduced from seven at the start of 2024 to just one by year-end.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Army chief expressed optimism about continuing the modernization thrust and enhancing the role of soldiers in his unit as a reliable, relevant, and responsive force.
Galido also stressed that the continued acquisition of modern defense systems will depend on strategic priorities set by higher headquarters and national leadership.
