PH Army evolving to meet new security threats
File photo shows troops from the Philippine Army in formation at Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. (INQUIRER / MARIANNE BERMUDEZ)
MANILA – Philippine Army (PA) commander Lt. Gen. Roy Galido said Saturday the service is now evolving to meet and address new security challenges.
In his message during the Army’s 128th founding anniversary, Galido said the Army, which previously focused on internal security, has now shifted to territorial defense, noting the external threats the country is now facing.
“We come together to celebrate 128 years of bravery, sacrifice, and undaunted service of the PA. Throughout history, our Army has been the backbone of our nation’s security, evolving to meet new challenges,” he said during the celebration held at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City.
Galido said the PA is focused on a game-changing mission that ensures a stronger, more capable, and future-ready force.
“For decades, the Army has significantly contributed to the decline of the communist and local terrorist groups, ensuring peace and stability within our borders. As threat evolves, so must we. Our focus now is on territorial defense, protecting our lands, coastline, and sovereignty,” he said.
Galido said this shift aligns with the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), which ensures that the PA works seamlessly with the Navy and Air Force to defend the Philippines’ vast national territory.
The PA’s role in CADC, he said, is to protect the land domain while supporting coastal and littoral operations.
“To meet this challenge, we have reconfigured our forces in ways that make us more agile and effective. The creation of Combat Engineer Regiment ensures protection of key strategic locations, fortifying our bases and securing mobility corridors,” he added.
Galido also said that PA reserve forces have been beefed up by redefining their roles in internal and external security operations, emphasizing the new functions of the community defense centers and regional community defense groups.
“Recognizing the need for accuracy and real-time battlefield awareness, we have upgraded our reconnaissance capabilities, ensuring our troops are always prepared to respond with precision and efficiency. Our infantry battalions have been restructured, making them lighter, more mobile, and more strategically positioned to defend the nation’s interests,” he added.
