President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officiated the opening of the newly refurbished Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Museum during its 89th anniversary celebration on December 20, 2024. The museum, set to welcome the public shortly, boasts an impressive array of military hardware, ranging from cannons and rifles to tanks and helicopters.
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) highlighted that the museum’s collection includes significant pieces such as a US M2 105mm Howitzer, a 37mm Japanese anti-tank gun, a 106mm US recoilless cannon, and notable aircraft like the Huey and MD 500 attack helicopters. Additionally, visitors can see a US M41 Light Tank and a historic presidential troop review vehicle.
The museum also features an assortment of old rifles, pistols, and traditional bladed weapons from Mindanao. A standout exhibit is the ‘Bongbong Rocket,’ an indigenous missile developed during the tenure of the late president Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., aimed at decreasing dependence on foreign defense equipment.
The AFP’s history dates back to the Philippine Revolutionary Army, established on March 22, 1897, in the struggle for independence from Spain. In 1901, the Philippine Constabulary was created by the United States to maintain order and quash remaining revolutionary activities. The modern AFP was formally established with the National Defense Act of 1935 under the Commonwealth government led by President Manuel L. Quezon.
This year’s anniversary theme, ‘AFP @ 89: Sandigan ng Sambayanan Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas,’ underscores the AFP’s dedication to honor, service, and patriotism.