Duterte’s promise to strengthen AFP in 2 years lauded

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in his second State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasang Pambansa on July 24, 2017, reiterates his unwaivering support for the armed forces and the police. VALERIE ESCALERA/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA, July 27 — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) lauded President Rodrigo Duterte’s announcement that he will make the military strong and credible in two year’s time.

This plan will allow the 125,000-strong AFP to carry out its mandate of protecting the country against external and internal security threats, military spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said Thursday.

“We strongly appreciate this proposal by the President as strengthening of the AFP will allow it to perform much better and efficiently its mandate,” he said in Filipino.




During a press conference after his second State-of-the-Nation-Address (SONA) Monday, the Chief Executive said he is pushing for the recruitment of 20,000 soldiers and 10,000 to 15,000 Special Action Force members for the Philippine National Police counter threats like insurgency and terrorism which are threatening to make foothold in the country.

As of this posting, the entire AFP, consisting of the Army, Navy and Air Force, has 125,000 officers and enlisted personnel.

Aside from additional troops, Duterte said he is planning to acquire all the needed weapons and equipment to further strengthen the AFP in its security role.

“Right at the very start of his tenure, the CinC assured the AFP that ‘he has our back.’ He has shown this many times and continues to do so this very day. He was on countless occasions genuinely shown his concern for our wounded and heroes and the families left behind,” Padilla added.

Aside from additional troops and equipment, Duterte also vowed to provide for the families of troops wounded or killed in the line of battle.

Assistance are in the form of shelter, healthcare, education and employment.

“It is not surprising then to hear the CinC announce the additional benefits for our fallen heroes’ widows and we are truly grateful. The AFP assures the Nation and the CinC of our continued dedication to serve and protect our country and our people,” the AFP spokesperson stressed. (Priam F. Nepomuceno/PNA)

Popular

PBBM hails dedication to public service of 2025 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos awardees

By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet “They remind us that integrity and excellence must be at the heart of the work that we all do.” Amid the various...

Palace supports calls for ICI empowerment

By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet “Nararamdaman po ng Pangulo at ng administrasyon ang nararamdaman ng mga businessman kaya po patuloy ang ginagawang pag-iimbestiga, at patuloy ang...

PBBM encourages Filipinos to remain prepared for disasters

By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet “Higit sa pagbangon o pagresponde, mas mahalaga ang maging handa.” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. underscored the importance of disaster preparedness and...

DHSUD expedites 2nd ‘Bayanihan Village’ for Cebu quake victims

By Brian Campued Consistent with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to provide safer and more comfortable refuge for the residents displaced by...