The Philippine Navy (PN) will have more weapons and naval platforms in the coming years to defend the country’s vast maritime territories, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Tuesday.
“He [Brawner] also highlighted the Navy’s invaluable role ‘in defending our archipelago’ and ensured ‘in the next few years, there will be more platforms, vessels, and missile systems in order to defend our archipelago’,” PN spokesperson Captain Benjo Negranza said in a statement Wednesday.
These naval platforms include the two missile corvettes and six offshore patrol vessels being built in South Korea, along with the five missile boats ordered from Israel, to name a few.
Brawner also lauded all PN sailors and Marines for their “unwavering commitment and dedication to service which contribute to the overall mission accomplishment of the AFP.”
The AFP chief visited the Navy headquarters at Naval Station Jose Andrada to conduct a so-called “Talk to Troops” along with Navy commander Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr.
In emphasizing the role of the PN in safeguarding the nation’s territorial defense, Brawner conveyed his strategic priorities embedded in the acronym “UNITY,” which represents a holistic approach to security and progress.
“U” symbolizes the Unification of the Armed Forces and the community toward the harmonious relationship between the military and the civilian population.
While “N” stands for Normalization in the Bangsamoro region characterized by lasting peace and stability.
“I” underscores the importance of Internal Security Operations as a critical aspect of national defense.
“T” is for Territorial Defense, guarding the nation’s sovereignty with unwavering commitment.
Lastly, “Y” cultivates the next generation of defenders through Youth and Reserve Development.
“Promoting the morale and welfare of the personnel, Gen. Brawner highly encouraged taking advantage of educational opportunities available for uniformed personnel, including college scholarship, master’s degree, and PhD programs,” Negranza said.
