January 5, 2025 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. have reiterated the military’s move to prioritize territorial defense and securing Philippine territorial waters in the next 12 months.
Leading this year’s New Year’s Call at Camp Aguinaldo last Friday, both Teodoro and Brawner underscored the need to further boost the country’s defense capabilities across all platforms.
Without specifically mentioning China and the West Philippine Sea (WPS), Teodoro urged the Department of National Defense (DND) and the AFP to “remain steadfast in protecting national sovereignty and upholding humanitarian values,
reflecting the overall theme of resilience and unity.”
He emphasized that the DND must “not allow the Philippines to be subjected to any distortions in narratives or momentum.”
“Every life is precious, and ‘no one left behind’ is our commitment – not only to our people, but also to our international commitments,” he said.
The defense chief also thanked the country’s foreign partners for their support in upholding the country’s sovereignty and rights under international law.
Meanwhile, Brawner shared the military organization’s priorities for 2025, including the modernization of the armed forces, enhancement of defense capabilities and establishment of strong presence in strategic areas of the country.
“We will enhance our naval, aerial, ground, air defense and cyber capabilities to protect our resources and ensure the security of our waters, always adhering to international law,” he declared.
On behalf of President Marcos, the DND said Teodoro extended his gratitude to the attendees of the New Year’s Call for their contributions to the accomplishments of the agency and the government as a whole in the past year.
The traditional New Year’s Call was attended by DND officials, AFP generals, foreign military attachés, officers, enlisted personnel and civilian staff.
The DND said “the event highlighted the strong camaraderie and shared commitment of the DND and the AFP in serving and protecting the Republic of the Philippines.”
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