In a recent statement, Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, the Philippine Navy’s spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, highlighted the military’s ongoing efforts to strengthen internal processes. This move comes as part of a broader strategic shift towards external defense, which began approximately two years ago. Trinidad emphasized that this transition has necessitated changes in systems and procedures to ensure comprehensive security, encompassing physical, cyber, communications, and human aspects.
Historically, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) concentrated on internal security due to local communist insurgencies. However, with these threats diminishing, the AFP has redirected its focus to external defense. Trinidad clarified that these adjustments were initiated well before recent espionage cases, which are currently being addressed by law enforcement with military assistance.
The shift in focus aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration’s emphasis on bolstering the Navy, as evidenced by his declaration of moving from internal to external security. This policy shift was further solidified by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr.’s introduction of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) in early 2024. The CADC aims to protect all Philippine territories, including its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone.
Trinidad expressed confidence in the AFP’s progress, stating that significant strides have been made in adapting systems and procedures to safeguard the entire archipelago.