NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018-2022

© 2018 by the Department of National Defense

Office of the Assistant Secretary for Plans and Programs DND Building, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Philippines Contact No.: 982-5600 www.dnd.gov.ph M E S SAG E O F T H E P R E S I D E N T O F T H E P H I L I P P I N E S

My warmest greetings to the Department of National Defense (DND) as it publishes the country’s very first National Defense Strategy (NDS) 2018-2022.

The publication of NDS 2018-2022 is indeed a milestone in our history as we face both perennial and new security challenges. To serve as the cornerstone of Philippine defense policy, this will guide the future direction of the DND in its mission of upholding our country’s security, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

I assure the Filipino people that the government is serious in finding solutions to address the numerous defense issues confronting us. We will build on our past gains to further strengthen our capabilities and ensure the continuous modernization of the military.

As we mark the publication of NDS 2018-2022, I urge all government agencies, especially the security sector, to support the implementation of this strategy. With our people’s continued support and the unwavering dedication of the valiant men and women of the DND, I am confident that we can achieve a stronger and more democratically vibrant future for our people.

Mabuhay ang Kagawaran ng Tanggulang Pambansa!

RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE

M A N I L A November 2018

THE PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES

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The current security environment offers a challenging picture for Philippine defense and security. Characterized as ever-evolving and rapidly-changing, the security landscape demands effective identification of priorities, harmonization of strategies, and rationalization of resources to successfully address the multifaceted threats of our time. In recognition of this reality, your Department of National Defense (DND) crafted the National Defense Strategy (NDS) 2018-2022 that shall serve as an overarching guide for the five (5) DND bureaus in planning, prioritizing and resourcing processes in pursuit of our duty to the nation. This will allow your DND to further elevate our readiness in accomplishing our constitutional mandate to the country and the Filipino people, and our full support to the national security agenda of President Duterte’s administration.

A result of months-long consultations and review by dedicated officers and specialists of the Department, the country’s very first NDS attempts to cover, in broad strokes, the various elements of security planning: environment assessment, defense organization, identification of defense thrusts, and continuing capability upgrade and modernization.

To provide our countrymen with the complete picture of our security environment, the 2nd Chapter of the NDS features a thorough assessment of both external and internal threats boldly faced by the country. This Chapter will allow the public to be better enlightened with the dynamic security environment, as well as the geopolitical realities that guide the actions of local and international actors involved.

The 3rd Chapter introduces the DND with a brief historical background on its establish- ment, which celebrates 79 years of unwavering service to the Filipino people today. Like- wise, this Chapter discusses the organizational structure and functions of the Department.

The 4th Chapter previews how the DND’s efforts and initiatives contribute to the national security and development agenda of the government. The NDS framework is anchored on the country’s overarching security blueprint, the National Security Policy (NSP) 2017- 2022 and the National Security Strategy (NSS) 2018 and discusses the role of these two (2) documents in the crafting of the National Military Strategy (NMS). Ensuring the logical or- der of these vital publications allows a smooth translation of national security agenda into a military objectives driven by strategy.

The 5th Chapter highlights the strategic thrusts of the Department, features the External and Internal Defense Mission Areas that guide the determination of military tasks and as- sessment of defense capabilities, and the specific guidance to DND bureaus. These thrusts, defense missions, and strategic guidance shall be vigorously pursued in line with the essential concept of jointness that is envisioned to improve the effectiveness and effi- ciency of the DND and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as an institution dedi- cated to safeguard this country and its people.

Equally important is the Chapter on the development of our country’s credible defense posture. More than the modern assets acquired and those in the pipeline, our capacity- building endeavors aim to further extend our military’s basing requirements, keep our

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doctrines up-to-date, enhance our organizational structure, and more importantly, de- velop our valuable human resource. Moreover, legal instruments shall be pursued with our legislative partners to lay down a favorable policy environment for the promotion of national security and social stability.

Successfully accomplishing these important undertakings is vital in the valued vision of the Department to be a key player in the Asia-Pacific Region, a formidable partner in nation-building, and most importantly, a trusted and reliable institution by the Filipino people.

We hope that the publication of the National Defense Strategy 2018-2022 will not only provide my fellow Filipinos with a deeper understanding of the security and defense realities that we are facing, but more so, and appreciation of the indispensable efforts of the men and women of the Defense Department in ensuring a stable and secured environment conducive for social progress, economic development, and attainment of our individual aspirations.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.

DELFIN N. LORENZANA Secretary of National Defense

November 2018

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TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... 5 LIST OF ACRONYMS ...... 6 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 8 CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION ...... 9 CHAPTER II. THE STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT ...... 10 A. PREVAILING SECURITY CHALLENGES ...... 11 B. OUR SECURITY PARTNERS ...... 21 1. SECURITY PARTNERS ...... 21 2. EMERGING SECURITY PARTNERS ...... 23 3. OTHER SECURITY PARTNERS ...... 24 CHAPTER III: THE DEFENSE FORCE STRUCTURE ...... 25 CHAPTER IV. THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK ...... 29 A. RELATING THE SECURITY, DEFENSE AND MILITARY STRATEGIES ...... 30 B. THE NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY FRAMEWORK ...... 32 CHAPTER V: THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES ...... 35 A. STRATEGIC THRUSTS ...... 36 B. DEFENSE MISSION AREAS ...... 43 C. STRATEGIC GUIDANCE TO CIVILIAN BUREAUS ...... 51 CHAPTER VI: CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE ...... 55 A. ACHIEVING RESPONSIVE STATE OF READINESS ...... 57 B. FORTIFYING THE DEFENSE FORCE ...... 60 C. PURSUING POLITICO-LEGAL ENABLERS ...... 63 CHAPTER VII: CONCLUSION ...... 68

NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018 - 2022 PAGE 5 L I S T O F AC R O N Y M S

ADMM ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting AFP Armed Forces of the Philippines ARF ASEAN Regional Forum ASEAN Association of Southeast Asian Nations ASG Abu Sayyaf Group BIFF Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters BFP Bureau of Fire Protection BJMP Bureau of Jail Management and Penology C4ISTAR Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Information, Surveillance, Target Acquisitions and Reconnaissance CBRNE Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives CCAM Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation CCP Chinese Communist Party CEIS Communications, Electronics and Information Systems CS Cyber Security CSO Civil Society Organizations CTG Communist Terrorist Group DICT Department of Information and Communications Technology DILG Department of Interior and Local Government DIWM Da’watul Islamiya Waliyatul Masriq DFA Department of Foreign Affairs DMPM Defense Mission Planning Memorandum DND Department of National Defense DOST Department of Science and Technology DRRM Disaster Risk Reduction and Management DSOM Defense System of Management DSWD Department of Social Welfare and Development ECLIP Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program EDCA Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone EO Executive Order GA Government Arsenal GDP Gross Domestic Product HADR Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief HRD Human Resource Development INSARAG International Search and Rescue Advisory Group ICT Information and Communications Technology ISO Internal Security Operations JSDF Japanese Self-Defense Forces KFR Kidnap-for-Ransom LGU Local Government Units MarAD Maritime and Air Defense Mission MDA Maritime Domain Awareness MDT RP-US Mutual Defense Treaty MILF Moro Islamic Liberation Front MNLF Moro National Liberation Front MOOTW Military Operations Other Than War MUP Military and Uniformed Personnel NDA National Defense Act NDCP National Defense College of the Philippines NDRRMC National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council

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NDS National Defense Strategy NEDA National Economic and Development Authority NGO Non-government Organization NMS National Military Strategy NSP National Security Policy NSS National Security Strategy NSTP National Service Training Program OCD Office of Civil Defense OFW Overseas Filipino Workers OLBARMM Organic Law of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao OPIF Organizational Performance Indicator Framework PADIZ Philippine Air Defense Identification Zone PCG Philippine Coast Guard PDIDA Philippine Defense Industry Development Act PDP Philippine Development Plan PDTR Philippine Defense Transformation Roadmap PNP Philippine National Police PRC People’s Republic of China PVAO Philippine Veterans Affairs Office RA Republic Act RDRRMC Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council ROTC Reserve Officers’ Training Corps SCE Security Cooperation and Engagement Mission SCS South China Sea SJPCC Security, Justice and Peace Cabinet Cluster SLOC Sea Lanes of Communications SOVFA Status of Visiting Forces Agreement SRDP Self-Reliant Defense Posture SRR Search, Rescue and Retrieval TCA Trilateral Cooperation Arrangement TCA-CP- Trilateral Cooperation Arrangement on Coordinated Patrols INDOMALPHI among Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines TD Territorial Defense Mission UNCLOS United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea UNOCHA United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs WPS West Philippine Sea

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A sovereign archipelagic nation in the the Secretary for the Department to: Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines 1) secure sovereignty and territorial confronts multifarious challenges both integrity, 2) uphold and sustain internal natural and man-made. Nestled in the stability, 3) attain the highest standard of Pacific Ring of Fire and the Typhoon Belt, capability and preparedness on disasters, the country experiences unprecedented 4) improve and sustain operations in disasters. Plagued by insurgency, support to global peace and security, and secessionism, terrorism, and territorial 5) promote good governance. disputes, the nation guards itself against such conventional and non-conventional Ultimately, the NDS aims to address security concerns. This volatile, uncertain, the imperative of strengthening the and complex environment demands the Department’s response to innumerable Philippine defense apparatus to efficiently challenges, and likewise harness and effectively utilize its modest resources. opportunities of our security environment. In particular, it gives emphasis on the Attaining this objective requires the DND's future direction in ensuring Department to chart its strategic direction sovereignty and territorial integrity, internal as embodied in this document. The stability, disaster preparedness, and National Defense Strategy (NDS) maps the global-regional relations in peace and planning, prioritization, and resourcing security. To build upon our gains, such processes to keep the DND at the forefront efforts require the effective implementation of the country’s defense and security. of our capacity development and Aligned with the Philippine Development capability upgrade, as well as the passage Plan, National Security Policy 2017-2022, of relevant legislative measures to bolster and the National Security Strategy (NSS) our strategic mechanisms. 2018, this document defines the thrusts of

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One of the basic principles declared in the taking stock of current capabilities and 1987 Constitution is the primary duty of the resources. Government to serve and protect its people. The Defense Department By 2028, DND shall have achieved the embraces this duty by fulfilling its mandate end-state of being a defense organization to: 1) maximize the organization’s that guarantees: 1) Philippine security, effectiveness in guarding against external sovereignty and territorial integrity, 2) a and internal threats to national peace and reliable partner in national development, security, 2) promote the welfare of soldiers and 3) a strategic player in the Asia-Pacific and veterans, and 3) provide an region. To realize this vision, the Depart- environment conducive for social and ment continues its efforts on building and economic development. sustaining the readiness of a defense force composed of highly trained and well- The National Defense Strategy (NDS) equipped soldiers and competent civilian represents this Department’s firm professionals; upholding the core values of commitment to protect the Filipino people patriotism, professionalism, and good and to ensure national security through a governance; and significantly increasing comprehensive strategic policy that defense capability and capacity through addresses the existing, emerging and modernization. potential threats engendered by an increasingly volatile security environment. Needless to say, the NDS is the govern- Through the NDS, defense policy setting ment’s key document on national defense shall be aligned with national policies such policy. The need to articulate the Depart- as the National Security Policy 2017-2022 ment’s strategy, in response to national and the Philippine Development Plan 2017- defense objectives and the priorities of this 2022. administration, is crucial due to the magni- tude and complexity of identified defense At present, the dynamic security and security concerns. More than a guid- architecture poses complex challenges ance to the five (5) bureaus of the Depart- that have pushed the role of the defense ment and a collaborative framework with establishment to evolve from traditional our partners and stakeholders, this docu- gun-wielding defenders into modern-day ment serves as a testament to the organi- agents of peace and humanitarian zation’s commitment towards the realiza- assistance. More than ever, it is now crucial tion of a secure and prosperous nation. to institute a strategy that focuses on the country’s key defense interests and translates them into mission areas while

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CHAPTER II THE STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT The World We Are Living In

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The Philippines is facing a highly complex development, the current environment and dynamic security environment, which must be used as a platform for cooperation poses multiple challenges beyond the with other government agencies to address capacity of a single government agency various security concerns and as a means to address. As such, while the Department to guarantee the well-being of Filipinos. pursues capacity building and capability

A. PREVAILING SECURITY CHALLENGES

CHALLENGES TO TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY AND MARITIME DOMAIN

Asia has one of the most dynamic tions (SLOCs) must be kept open and that regional security environment freedom of navigation and overflight in the characterized by several major active SCS must be ensured. disputes. One of these are the concerns in As such, the Philippines, as a maritime and the West Philippines Sea (WPS), which can archipelagic nation, views the massive be considered as the foremost security construction of artificial islands in its challenge to Philippine sovereignty and maritime areas in the SCS, which may be territorial integrity. This is part of the larger used as military bases, as a grave threat to South China Sea (SCS) dispute, which saw its national security. The past years have various Asian states laying claim to islands been witness to the occupation of and features dotting this resource-rich numerous key features in the SCS including maritime area. Considered as the maritime Mischief Reef, Fiery Cross Reef, and heartland of Southeast Asia, the SCS is Scarborough Shoal, as well as massive crucial to the security and economy of the creation of artificial islands done by China region. Indeed, Sea Lanes of Communica- to assert its claim.

Secretary Lorenzana visits Pag-asa Island Pag-asa Island in the West Philippine Sea

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CHALLENGES TO TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY AND MARITIME DOMAIN

The 2016 Arbitration award, which ruled in favor of the West Philippine Sea Philippines established the country’s sovereign rights over the waters in WPS and invalidated China’s historic Pursuant to Administrative Order and expansive “nine-dash line” claim. The SCS is still a No. 29, s. 2012, West Philippine Sea pertinent issue among nations even with the 2016 (WPS) is the collective term used Arbitration ruling, as this still concerns numerous for the waters in the western side of the Philippine archipelago over claimants and the involvement of Pacific powers which the Philippines has sovereign including Australia, Japan, and the United States. Aside jurisdiction and sovereign rights from the diplomatic relations being affected by this under international law, particular- issue, this dispute likewise brings with it the progressively ly the United Nations Convention on increasing degradation of the marine environment in the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This the area. This in turn has decreased marine resources in includes the country’s territorial our traditional fishing grounds that have served as sea, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), source of livelihood for Filipino fisher folk since time im- the continental shelf and extended memorial. Compounding these is building of various arti- continental shelf. ficial features, which resulted in irreversible damage to The WPS includes the Luzon Sea the environs. The dispute prevents the much needed and waters around, within, and ad- international cooperation in order to address key mari- jacent the Kalayaan Island Group time environmental concerns such as the dwindling fish and Bajo De Masinloc. stocks in the area that National Geographic believes to be one tenth of its size six (6) decades ago.

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Notwithstanding the need to focus on the countries. Moreover, the Cross-Strait western front of the Philippine territory, the relations between China and Taiwan continuous monitoring and patrol of the dominate the interplay of geopolitical entire Philippine territory is desired players in the region and is still highly especially in the resource-rich Philippine regarded as East Asia’s security flashpoint. Rise. Also important is the continuous China’s continued rhetoric on the “One conduct and effective implementation of China” policy, conduct of live fire drills and the Trilateral Cooperation Arrangement on the call for reunification, as well as the rise Coordinated Patrols among Indonesia, of nationalist tones in Taiwan’s international Malaysia, and the Philippines and domestic policies are all significant (TCA-CP-INDOMALPHI) that shall contribute concerns to their precarious relationship. to the security of the country’s southern These developments might lead to borders. Moreover, the DND shall continue miscalculations and further escalation of to adhere to Memorandum Circular No. 162 military conflict. dated 20 August 2008 and DND 2009 Guidelines on the military-to-military Increasing tension among East Asian activities with Malaysia in connection with nations is a concern given their assistance the Sabah Claim. to the country’s development as well as

Philippine economic and social interests in Another important security flashpoint is in these countries as highlighted by the the Northeast Sea, where overlapping significance in trade and Overseas Filipino claims of China, Japan, and Taiwan over Workers (OFW) deployed. Also important is the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands serve as the to recognize that the overall strategic major point of contention among Asia’s backdrop and geopolitical landscape of economic powerhouses. Liancourt Rocks, the Asia-Pacific lies on the US-China rivalry, another disputed feature located halfway which proves to be a vital consideration for between South Korea and Japan, stirred the strategic decisions of the country. historical disagreements between these

ONGOING INTERNAL CONFLICTS DUE TO ETHNIC, POLITICAL, SECTARIAN AND RELIGIOUS FRICTION

Numerous internal armed conflicts are ongoing efforts to eradicate the extremist continuously disrupting global stability with Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is majority of them taking place progressing positively with the capture of simultaneously in the Middle East and the latter’s capital, Mosul, in the Africa. In Syria, government forces and the middle of 2017. Further, the long-standing network of rebels are locked in a conflict Israel-Palestinian conflict continues to that took the lives of and displaced Syrians affect regional stability. in millions. To its east, the Iraqi government’s

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ONGOING INTERNAL CONFLICTS DUE TO ETHNIC, POLITICAL, SECTARIAN AND RELIGIOUS FRICTION

In the Philippines, the age-old government and private properties communist insurgency by the Communist impedes the development of the Terrorist Group (CTG), the lawless activities countryside. Negotiating a peace deal of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom with the group is largely challenged by the Fighters (BIFF) and other peace-spoiling group’s violation of ceasefire agreements rogue elements of Moro Islamic Liberation as well as continued extortions to fund the Front (MILF) and Moro National movement. In tandem with the peace Liberation Front (MNLF), as well as terrorism process, the government is implementing acts primarily by the Abu Sayyaf Group efforts and providing basic services to (ASG) are still considered as the country’s address the root-cause of the conflict: major internal security concern. The CTG’s poverty and agrarian reform. insurgency, considered as one of longest running conflicts in Asia, has claimed an The Muslim separatist struggle, on the other estimated 30,000 lives since the 1960s. Cur- hand, is expected to come to an end rently, it is believed that the group has ap- largely due to the peace deal signed in proximately 4,000 fighters, down from its 2014 with the MILF. The historic signing of RA peak of 26,000 in the 1980s. However, the 11054 or the Organic Law of the CTG still poses a threat due to its presence Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim in several provinces particularly in Mindanao (OLBARMM) is expected to fully the resource-rich Mindanao. give Mindanao its long-sought peace and Their conduct of various illegal development that shall end the cycle of activities which include extortion, extreme poverty, underdevelopment and kidnapping, and destruction of both decades- long violence in the country’s

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most resource-rich region. As the proposed convergence of effort among the AFP, shift to Federalism gains ground, the PNP, other law enforcement agencies Department actively monitors any and even Local Government Units (LGUs) developments that these proposals may is desired in recognition of Internal contribute to the security situation. Security Operations (ISOs) as top public safety concern and as part of the Given the scale of the internal security whole- of -government approach of this challenges that the country is facing, a administration.

TERRORISM AND OTHER TRANSNATIONAL THREATS

The intensifying attacks being conducted As for the Philippines, the continued by violent extremist groups and terrorists is a lawless violence, bombings, and growing global concern. Attacks targeting Kidnap-for-Ransom (KFR) antics of local urban centers and high-density areas are terrorist groups are glaring examples of the eye-openers on the capacity of these extent of terrorism that need to be groups to spread terror, disrupt societal and addressed. Extensive collaborative efforts economic activities, and further divide the among government agencies, LGUs, world along ethnic and religious lines. To Civil-Society Organizations (CSOs), aggravate the situation, the power of social Non-government organizations (NGOs), media has been harnessed by such extrem- international partners, and the ist organizations in propagating its ideals, citizenry are required to keep this in calling for support, and conducting check, if not eradicated. recruitment efforts.

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In May 2017, the attention of the world government the necessary space to turned to the country as we had undertake unhampered rehabilitation of experienced ISIS-inspired attacks in the Marawi, and accelerate development in Islamic City of Marawi. Government forces the island of Mindanao. apprehending ASG leader Isnilon Hapilon were confronted with armed resistance, Transnational crimes are likewise alarming which soon escalated to numerous violent due to the socioeconomic losses derived attacks even against the civilian from these illegal activities and the populace in the form of bombings, involvement of international crime kidnappings, cutting of vital lines for syndicates in such endeavors, including: transportation and power, seizing of (1) drug trafficking; (2) human trafficking of facilities such as schools and hospitals. children, women, illegal migrants, and Indeed, the brazen display of ISIS flags in labor; (3) illegal fishing/poaching; (4) arms the city caused alarm nationwide. smuggling and proliferation of small arms; and, (5) money laundering. The porous Such atrocities were caused by the nature of Philippine borders, especially in banding together of local terrorist groups the South, encourage piracy, smuggling, in Mindanao, consisting of the ASG, BIFF, and other illegal activities. This is a shared Maute group and the Ansarul Khilafa concern of the region. Philippines, collectively known as Da’watul Islamiya Waliyatul Masriq (DIWM), and the act of pledging allegiance by more groups to the DAESH vision of establishing an Islamic caliphate and promoting radicalization and violent extremism. Marawi City was targeted to be the Islamic caliphate in Southeast Asia.

The declaration of Martial Law on 23 May 2017 was a necessary measure to ensure that the rule of law and safety of the people prevail. Its subsequent extension until 31 December 2018 is welcomed as it allows the DND-AFP to better safeguard public safety in Mindanao, allow the

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INTENSIFYING THREAT IN CYBERSPACE

The cyberspace is an enabling incidents. Moreover, the unprecedented environment that allows for the rapid potential of cyberspace to bypass transmission of data and quick access to traditional security measures makes it a information which interlink systems and serious threat that requires immediate processes among nations as well as action in this rapidly-changing and connect billions of people around the highly-technological environment. globe. However, this same innovative As part of the Department of Information platform is being adulterated. A country’s and Communications Technology’s (DICT) national security and defense networks are National Cybersecurity Framework, the made vulnerable to attacks and increased DND is the lead agency in the following chance of sensitive data falling into the Cyber Defense tasks: (1) Defend the wrong hands. military network and infrastructures from Cyberspace is likewise known as the 4th cyber-attacks; (2) Gather foreign cyber dimension in warfare for which a threat intelligence and determine defense system needs to be developed. attribution; (3) Secure national security and Other relevant threats have emerged in the military systems; (4) Support national cyberspace such as espionage, protection, prevention, mitigation of, and radicalization, crime, terrorism and other recovery from cyber incidents; and various disruptions. (5) Investigate cybercrimes under military jurisdiction. These highlight the areas of With most countries progressively convergence with other government enlarging cyber space capabilities as a agencies where DND can contribute in weapons system, it is indeed high time to attaining a cyber-secured Philippines. put more focus on how the nation will deter, defend, and mitigate cyber-related

IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND NATURAL DISASTERS

Studies show that the Philippines is highly other natural disasters that require huge vulnerable to the effects of climate amount of preparations and immediate change which has been bringing extreme response include earthquakes, tsunamis, weather conditions underlined by extreme and landslides among others maximum and minimum temperatures, particularly in anticipation of the 7.2 more frequent yet intense rains, and more magnitude earthquake (with the possible disastrous tropical cyclones such as movement of the West Valley Fault or the Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. Aside from this, Manila Trench or both at the same time)

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IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND NATURAL DISASTERS

and high possibility of affecting the Greater humanitarian disasters, cause political Metro Manila area and its neighboring violence or further undermine weak provinces. This requires full attention as the governments. Likewise, it forces worst case scenario would displace about governments to heavily invest in 2.8 million population, and expected to adaptation measures, stronger cause thousands of deaths and injuries, infrastructures, and disaster-response damage infrastructure, properties, the capabilities to reduce potential environment and lifelines, disrupt economic catastrophic damage. Said investment activities, lead to breakdown of peace must take into consideration the limited and order, among others. resources, which competes with other priorities primarily high-yield socioeconomic According to the US Council of Foreign activities. Relations Special Report on Climate Change and National Security dated Given the dire effects of climate change, November 2007, climate change has a countries and supranational bodies have destabilizing effect on global and local been intensifying its efforts towards creating security background. It can overwhelm a long-term solution to mitigate its effects disaster-prone countries with wide-spread and manage its consequences. In terms of

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IMPACTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND NATURAL DISASTERS

National Security, climate change has the NDRRM Plan. particular effects on food security, health, Further, the DND through the AFP takes the economic stability, and ecological lead role in advancing integrated and balance. coordinated Search, Rescue and Retrieval The country’s participation to the Paris (SRR) capacity. Agreement under the UN Framework From a military point of view, effects of Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) climate change have behooved the that aims to keep global temperature rise ASEAN militaries, including the AFP, to well below two (2) degrees Celsius, is a diversify their capabilities and acquire welcome development on this matter. assets that may be used to address both In accordance with the role of the traditional and non-traditional security Secretary of National Defense as the threats such as Humanitarian Assistance chairperson of the National Disaster Risk and Disaster Relief (HADR). This has Reduction and Management Council implications for prioritizing the defense (NDRRMC), the DND thru the Office of Civil capability upgrade of the AFP and the Defense (OCD) shall assist the lead management of its limited financial, agencies in the four (4) thematic areas of human, and technical resources.

Thematic areas of the NDRRM Plan 2011-2018 with the respective lead agencies

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PROLIFERATION OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS AND CHEMICAL, BIOLOGICAL, RADIOACTIVE, AND NUCLEAR EXPLOSIVE (CBRNE) MATERIALS

Nuclear weapons still stand as the most and the country’s proximity. As the actors destructive in any country’s arsenal. involved are moving gradually towards Currently, an estimated 14,930 nuclear de-escalation, the situation still calls for the weapons are in the inventory of nine (9) continuous attention of the Department countries with Russia and the US owning and the pertinent government agencies in 7,000 and 6,800, respectively. In as much preparing for any eventualities. The DND as there were efforts to scale down the actively supports the contingency plan of numbers of operational nuclear weapons the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in the world, countries are not prevented regarding this matter. from attempts to acquire and produce their own nuclear devices as a form of The increasing high-profile attacks using powerful deterrent. chemical and biological weapons are likewise a concern. The manner these The intermittent relations between North were utilized in the assassination of Kim Korea and the US (together with its East Jong-nam, Kim Jong-un’s brother, and the Asian allies, South Korea and Japan) on Novichok poisoning in UK calls for a the issue of nuclear weapons deeper understanding of these substances development is of great concern to our and the know-how on how to prevent nation as this affects the safety of such attacks. thousands of OFWs living in those countries

PAGE 20 CHAPTER II STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT C H A P T E R I I S T RAT E G I C E N V I R O N M E N T B. OUR SECURITY PARTNERS

The complex global security environment effective framework of collaboration calls for the cooperation among states to among nations. It is in the interest of the address concerns that cross borders and country that security partnerships are being traditional boundaries. As such, no nation nurtured with other like-minded states and has the power to overcome these issues that possible opportunities of cooperation with this magnitude, and thus requires an are being explored.

SECURITY PARTN ERS

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AUSTRALIA

The US remains as the only treaty ally of the Australia remains a strong security partner Philippines. Considered as one of the of the Philippines ever since the diplomatic major powers, the US commands the relations between the two counties world’s most powerful and advanced was established in 1946. As further military, with global presence supported enhanced by the establishment by its network of alliances and security of Philippines-Australia comprehensive partnerships, and overseas bases, two of partnership in 2015, cooperation on the largest of which are located in South anti-terrorism measures, maritime security, Korea and Japan. natural disasters, and human trafficking as well as trainings and academic Further, the stabilizing US presence in the exchanges remain robust and is expected region can be expected to persist as it is to continue in the future. Canberra’s strengthened by its continued defense policy focuses on the modernization of its engagements forged with Asia-Pacific armed forces and alignment of its nations including Japan, South Korea, New strategies to its resources in light of the Zealand, Australia, and the Philippines. The complex dynamics of international 1951 RP-US Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) relations. Australia-New-Zealand-United further strengthened by the 2014 States relations continue to provide Enhanced Defense Cooperation security umbrella in the Oceania region. Agreement (EDCA) aimed at advancing the implementation of the MDT and US-PH The Status of Visiting Forces defense relations through: 1) Interoperabil- Agreement (SOVFA) between the ity; (2) Capacity-building; (3) Maritime Philippines and Australia is a solid Security; (4) Maritime Domain Awareness; foundation for a partnership that is primed and (5) HADR. for continuing the already-effective and fruitful relations.

CHAPTER II STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT PAGE 21 C H A P T E R I I S T RAT E G I C E N V I R O N M E N T

SECURITY PARTNERS

SOUTH KOREA JAPAN

With a long history as a key actor in East A Washington ally and host to US military Asia and a growing regional economy, forces, Japan is set to undertake a greater South Korea has been heavily engaged in role in the region. The re-interpretation of its promoting regional security in this side of constitution posed a major shift in Asia’s the Pacific through defense cooperation geopolitical arena as the Japanese and active participation in various Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) may now regional initiatives. engage in collective self-defense in aid of an ally. Japan has been intensifying the

modernization of its military hardware and Considered to still be engaged in a war at the same time pursuing closer security with its northern neighbor and compound- relations with regional states including the ed by other regional security concerns, Philippines. the focus of South Korea is to maintain its

“firm readiness posture” and embrace its relationship with the US with its stabilizing Indeed, founded on the strategic presence in the Peninsula. partnership between the two countries established, PH-Japan security relations

can be characterized through various The ongoing cooperation on logistics agreements on defense cooperation and between the Philippines and South Korea education exchanges, cooperation on is a continuation of both countries’ shared capacity building, defense equipment and commitment to regional stability, first technology, logistics support and coopera- exemplified during the Korean war. tion on non-traditional concerns especially on Peacekeeping Operations (PKOs), Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR), and maritime security.

PH-Japan bilateral defense relations have achieved significant milestones on various areas of cooperation.

PAGE 22 CHAPTER II STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT C H A P T E R I I S T RAT E G I C E N V I R O N M E N T

SECURITY PARTNERS

A S S O C I A T I O N O F S O U T H E A S T A S I A N N A T I O N S ( A S E A N )

The regional community celebrated its 50th addressing the disputes surrounding the year in 2017, which was successfully hosted region’s waters and states’ response by the Philippines and looks forward to a against transnational issues. deeper integration in three areas:

(1) Politico-Security; Aside from defense spending, the (2) Economic; and, challenges mentioned also served as (3) Socio-Cultural. impetus for greater cooperation among ASEAN states that resulted in practical initiatives such as the Trilateral Cooperation However, the economic gap among the Agreement (TCA) between the Philippines, member-nations is still a hurdle that must Malaysia, and Indonesia. Said effort is a be overcome in order to achieve its continuation of the long-standing desired community of having “One relationship between the countries on ASEAN”. The Philippines supports ASEAN’s maritime security and anti-trafficking, as centrality in the multilateral architecture of first identified in the Philippines-Indonesia the region. Border Patrol Agreement.

Thus, the Philippine defense establishment Moreover, emphasis on the country’s shall continue to actively participate in the relationship with Vietnam is anchored on various defense and security platforms of the six-year strategic partnership conclud- ASEAN, including, but not limited to, the ed by the President in 2017 with Hanoi that ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), ASEAN spells out the importance of bilateral Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM), and negotiations on maritime cooperation. ADMM-Plus. With the success of the Trilateral

Cooperation Agreement and other signed In terms of defense, it can be noted that agreements, the Department shall contin- there is a marked increase in defense ue exploring other potential bilateral/ spending and asset-acquisition during the multilateral engagements on security and past few years among ASEAN members, defense with the ASEAN partners. which can be attributed to the efforts in

CHAPTER II STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT PAGE 23 C H A P T E R I I S T RAT E G I C E N V I R O N M E N T

EMERGING SECURITY PARTNERS

P E O P L E ’ S R E P U B L I C O F C H I N A R U S S I A

People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) rise in The dissolution of the Soviet Union the world stage as a major power is reduced Russia’s ability for power buttressed on a well-equipped and sizable projection. However, recent modernization military coupled with a dynamic drive, possession of one of the world’s economy, making it one of the world’s key largest nuclear arsenal, and strong-willed markets. leadership provided by President Vladimir

Putin makes Russia a considerable military With these resources, it is expected that power with reach from Eastern Europe to the Asian power will expand its regional the shores of Siberia. reach in the years to come as it looks forward to its twin centenary - the 100th year of the Chinese Communist Party With the signing of numerous agreements (CCP) and the centennial celebrations for as well as proposal for deeper the founding of the People’s Republic of cooperation, it is expected that Moscow China (PRC). will be an emerging partner of the Philippines in security and defense. In light of the historical partnership and cooperation between Manila and Beijing, the current warm relationship between the two countries is a welcome development for the region.

PAGE 24 CHAPTER II STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT C H A P T E R I I S T RAT E G I C E N V I R O N M E N T

OTHER SECURITY PARTNERS

The country’s emerging security The multi-dimensional character and relations with India, New Zealand, Israel rapidly-changing nature of the and Canada are also noteworthy and geopolitical arena must be taken into require utmost recognition in view of the consideration and must serve as important cooperation on training and capability reminder for the Defense Department and development, among others. Same the AFP to continue developing and acknowledgment can be likewise improving its capabilities, its systems, and extended to Philippine European partners the culture of the defense community. including, but not limited to:

 Czech Republic Recognizing and aligning the priorities and strategies along these realities shall  Spain allow the DND to effectively and  Italy competently uphold its constitutional mandate to the country and to the Filipino  Poland people.  France

 United Kingdom

 Germany

 Turkey

All in all, the security threats and our international partnerships play a vital role in defining the way ahead for the security sector, particularly on defense planning and strategy-making.

CHAPTER II STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT PAGE 25 CHAPTER III

THE DEFENSE FORCE STRUCTURE

PAGE 26 NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018 - 2022 C H A P T E R I I I T H E D E F E N S E F O R C E S T R U C T U R E

“Let our Defense Organization be a key player in the Asia-Pacific Region, a formidable partner in nation building, trusted and relied on by our people. With the active participation of each and every soldier and civilian personnel, we can collectively make the Department of National Defense a partner towards a peaceful and progressive Philippines.”

DND Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana during the 77th DND Anniversary

THE DEFENSE ORGANIZATION

By virtue of Executive Order (EO) No. 230 to fundamental principles of a republic and implement Commonwealth Act No. 1, democratic country as embodied in the otherwise known as the National Defense 1987 Philippine Constitution. Act of 1935, the Department of National The country renounces war as an Defense (DND) was established on instrument of national policy, adopts the 1 November 1939. It is one of the oldest generally accepted principles of executive government agencies of the international law, and strives for peace, Republic, tracing its roots back to the equality, justice, freedom, and amity with inauguration of the Commonwealth all nations. (Article II, Section 2) Republic of former President Manuel L. The constitution upholds the supremacy of Quezon. civilian authority over the military while it To this day, the DND continues to fulfill its tasks the armed forces of the Philippines to mandate of serving and protecting the be the protector of the people and the Filipino people against the backdrop of an state, and to secure the sovereignty and ever-evolving security architecture. The integrity of the national territory. (Article II, Department subscribes to having a Section 3) Philippines where freedom, dignity, and In pursuit of its prime duty to serve and prosperity are fully expressed, enhanced, protect the people, the government may and protected. call upon its citizens to defend the state With the Philippines emerging as a through personal, military, or civil service. proactive stakeholder in international and (Article II, Section 4) regional affairs, it adheres to the

CHAPTER III THE DEFENSE FORCE STRUCTURE PAGE 27 C H A P T E R I I I T H E D E F E N S E F O R C E S T R U C T U R E

The DND is the agency primarily tasked to ensure the defense and security of the country. Its organizational structure consists of the DND Proper providing policy direction to its five (5) attached bureaus, namely:

 Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)

 Government Arsenal (GA)

 National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP)

 Office of Civil Defense (OCD)

 Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO)

PAGE 28 CHAPTER III THE DEFENSE FORCE STRUCTURE C H A P T E R I I I T H E D E F E N S E F O R C E S T R U C T U R E

M A N DAT E

To maximize its effectiveness for guarding against external and internal threats to national peace and security, promote the welfare of soldiers and veterans, and provide support for social and economic development.

Executive Orders (EO) Nos. 292 (1987) and 112 (1999)

V I S I O N

A Defense Organization that guarantees Philippine security, sovereignty and territorial integrity, a reliable partner in national development, and a strategic player in the Asia Pacific region.

C O R E VA L U E S

Guided by the fundamental principles and core values of patriotism, professionalism, and good governance, the DND performs its duties and responsibilities for the successful attainment of its vision and mandate.

CHAPTER III THE DEFENSE FORCE STRUCTURE PAGE 29

C H A P T E R I I I T H E D E F E N S E F O R C E S T R U C T U R E THE DEFENSE ORGANIZ A TION TION A ORGANIZ DEFENSE THE

PAGE 30 CHAPTER III THE DEFENSE FORCE STRUCTURE CHAPTER IV

THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK

NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018 - 2022 PAGE 31 C H A P T E R I V T H E S T RAT E G I C F RA M E WO R K

“The Government envisions a Philippines that by 2022 shall become a secure and prosperous nation wherein the people’s welfare, well-being, ways of life and core values, government and its institutions, territorial integrity and sovereignty are protected and enhanced and confident of its place in the community of nations.”

National Security Policy (NSP) 2017-2022

A. RELATING THE SECURITY, DEFENSE AND MILITARY STRATEGIES

The National Defense Strategy (NDS) is an essential part of the logical order of strategies that cascades in all levels of the government.

The National Security Strategy (NSS), the overall blueprint, identifies the important tasks to be accomplished by the entire bureaucracy to ensure an environment conducive for the people to live their potential, for communities to grow, and for the economy to prosper.

Strategic Lines of Actions and a National Security Framework were likewise work for the DND and its bureaus on en- established to guide the different agencies hancing thecapacity to address present of the government and to serve as and evolving challenges in view of the rap- backbone to agency plans that seamlessly idly-changing security landscape. support the national security agenda. The NDS, in the same vein, shall serve as the

anchor in crafting the National Military The NDS, on the other hand, Strategy (NMS). Ultimately, the cascading maps the planning, prioritization, and of NDS to NMS ensures coherence and resourcing process of the Department in alignment of important strategies for a line with the identified priorities and more effective and collective response to outcomes of the NSS. This document national security threats, in all levels of the is the contribution of the Department Philippine Government. to the whole-of-government approach espoused by the NSS. The DND shall actively ensure and support the National Security Goals and Strategic In recognition of the complex and multi- Actions as identified in the National faceted nature of threats that the country Security Policy (NSP) 2017-2022 and the faces. The NDS likewise provides the frame- National Security Strategy (NSS) 2018.

PAGE 32 CHAPTER IV THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK C H A P T E R I V T H E S T RAT E G I C F RA M E WO R K

RELATING THE SECURITY, DEFENSE AND MILITARY STRATEGIES

NATIONAL SECURITY KEY FEATURES OF STRATEGIC ACTIONS GOALS Terrorism, Insurgency and Subversion Modernize, professionalize and synergize the Armed Forces with the National Police to be capable of combating terrorism, insurgency and subversion, quickly and decisively. Defeat Radicalism and prevent recruitment. Implement the peace agreements. Provide additional security to future and existing infrastructure projects. Address the plight of the Indigenous Peoples and farmers to prevent unrest in the countryside and recruitment of insurgents and terrorists. Guarantee Implement peace-promoting and catch-up socioeconomic development. Public Safety and Strengthen government peace and development institutions. achieve Good Governance Train and expand the strength of the reservists to at least one percent (1%) of the population. Transnational Organized Crimes Create a reliable database on transnational organized crime syndicates for information-sharing with foreign counterparts. Criminalities, Public Safety, Rule of Law, and Human Rights Dismantle all private armies. Integrate human rights approaches to all aspects of State functions. Building a system for swift intelligence gathering and apprehension of criminal elements. Develop a Dynamic, Promote military and defense establishments’ partnerships with the private Inclusive and sector and foreign companies in the build-up of strategic industries. Sustainable Economy Modernize the deterrent and self-defense capabilities of our ground, Safeguard and naval, littoral, and air forces. Preserve National Enhance professional development of defense and foreign attaches. Sovereignty and Pursue national security legislations. Territorial Integrity Support bilateral, regional, and global mechanisms that promote peace and security, the rule of law, and peaceful resolution of disputes. Strengthen the role and capability of the local government units Promote Human and security forces in disaster, emergencies and crisis response. Ecological Security Allocate sufficient public funds and investments in disaster risk reduction and management and to personnel engaged in disaster-risk and reduction activities. Integrate management plans and operation in our air and maritime domains. Ensure Maritime and Identify and acquire equipment to provide nationwide 24/7 domain awareness, Airspace Security and effectively manage and control Philippines air and maritime spaces. Promote maritime domain awareness. Promote amity and cooperation with all nations by enhancing bilateral relations, strengthening alliances and strategic partnerships, and developing new security Strengthen or cooperation arrangements. International Expand and enhance engagements and cooperation with regional Relations and international organizations. Expand security, defense, social and economic diplomacy in support of the national vision and the country’s security and development agenda.

CHAPTER IV THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK PAGE 33 C H A P T E R I V T H E S T RAT E G I C F RA M E WO R K

B. THE NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY FRAMEWORK

The country’s national security and external security threats. With this goal, economic vision as prescribed in the additional manpower for uniformed National Security Policy (NSP) 2017-2022, personnel covering the air, naval, Philippine Development Plan (PDP) and land assets is endeavored to be 2017-2022 and the Roadmap of the acquired. Security, Justice, and Peace Cabinet The fight against corruption has been the Cluster (SJPCC), is to establish a Cohesive, battlecry of the incumbent administration Secure, and Progressive Nation as early as the Presidential Electoral Achieved. Based on the NSP 2017-2022, Campaign of 2016. Today, as stated in the the Philippine government envisions to be PDP 2017-2022, a secure and peaceful a Secure and Prosperous Nation by 2022, environment is essential to achieve a -being, wherein the people’s welfare, well strong economic growth and ways of life and the government’s core development. This secure and peaceful values are protected, territorial integrity environment can only be achieved and sovereignty are enhanced, and the through a people-centered, corrupt-free country is confident of its place in the and efficient government. community of nations. In the President’s Zero to 10 Point Both the security and development Socioeconomic Agenda, peace and agenda are echoed by the President in order has been dubbed as the bedrock his aim to have an Intensified Security of socio-economic development that Posture by amplifying the ranks and includes fight against criminality, capabilities of State forces to address corruption, and smuggling. more effectively persistent internal and

PAGE 34 CHAPTER IV THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK C H A P T E R I V T H E S T RAT E G I C F RA M E WO R K

B. THE NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY FRAMEWORK

The DND plays an important role in In response to the multifarious producing an environment that is challenges posed by a dynamic security conducive for growth in order to pave the environment, the Department way for prosperity. Specifically, the continuously endeavors to carry out Department actively contributes to the strategic priorities by identifying a list of government’s development plans in mission areas that lay the foundation to attaining a just and lasting peace and perform defense missions and functions for ensuring security, public order and safety. both civilian and military bureaus.

On 20 July 2016, the DND identified strategic thrusts founded on the priorities EXTERNAL DEFENSE MISSIONS of the current administration while its 1. Maritime and Air Defense strategic outcomes have been stipulated Mission (MarAD) in the Department's Organizational 2. Cyber Security Mission (CS) Performance Indicator Framework (OPIF) 3. Security Cooperation and and the Philippine Defense Transformation Engagement Mission (SCE) Roadmap (PDTR) 2028. In broad strokes the Department’s strategic priorities are shown below: INTERNAL DEFENSE MISSIONS

1. Territorial Defense Mission (TD) STRATEGIC THRUSTS 2. Security and Stability Mission (SS) 1. Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity of the State Secured 3. Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response Mission 2. Internal Stability Promoted (HADR) and Sustained

3. Highest Standard of Capability The relationships of these visions and and Preparedness on Disasters Attained concepts are connected through the NDS strategic framework, explained in detail in 4. Operations in Support to Global Peace and Security the succeeding chapters. Improved and Sustained

5. Good Governance Upheld

CHAPTER IV THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK PAGE 35

C H A P T E R I V T H E S T RAT E G I C F RA M E WO R K NDS STRATEGIC FRAMEW ORK ORK FRAMEW STRATEGIC NDS

PAGE 36 CHAPTER IV THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK CHAPTER V

THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018 - 2022 PAGE 37 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

The SND’s guidance articulates the priorities bureaucracy, cutting red tape, fighting that chart the Department’s future direction crime and pursuing an independent and policy developments. It likewise reflects foreign policy, among others. the pronouncements of the President and Moreover, the Department shall strive to overall direction of the national realize its vision to become a credible de- Government.

fense organization that ensures With the core values of patriotism, Philippine security, sovereignty, and professionalism, and good governance, the territorial integrity; a reliable partner in DND shall be guided by the vision national development; and a strategic statement of the President of streamlining player in the Asia-Pacific Region.

1. SOVEREIGNTY AND TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY OF THE STATE SECURED A. STRATEGIC THRUSTS As with any defense force of a sovereign AFP Modernization Program; and, nation, the Department shall sustain its (2) Orchestrating the development of a efforts in improving capabilities for territorial robust defense industry that will sustain defense through the following: the capabilities being developed by (1) Continued implementation of the the AFP through a proactive Self-Reliant AFP Capability Upgrade Program and Defense Posture (SRDP) Program.

Philippine Airforce FA-50 light fighter

PAGE 38 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

1. SOVEREIGNTY AND TERRITORIAL INTEGRITY OF THE STATE SECURED

Flag planted at the bottom of the Philippine Rise in celebration of the Philippine Independence Day in 2017

Flag raising at the Philippine Rise aboard the BRP Davao Del Sur to celebrate the Independence Day of the Philippines in 2017

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 39 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

2. I N T E R N A L S T A B I L I T Y

As its contribution to the attainment of a counter and eliminate destabilizing threats secure environment that is conducive for posed by terrorist groups and lawless national development, the DND shall syndicates while upholding and adhering intensify its support to law enforcement to the principles of human rights, interna- agencies, particularly those that aim to tional humanitarian law, and rule of law.

PAGE 40 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

I N T E R N A L S TA B I L I T Y

The Department shall remain supportive of Further, the Department chairs the the peace process, particularly in the inter-agency Task Force Balik Loob which is implementation of signed as well as new the central coordinating body that peace agreements and related initiatives supervises the reintegration efforts of the to attain a just and lasting peace. national government through the E-CLIP. Other members of the said Task Force in- Reintegrating former rebels to the society clude: through the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) is one  Office of the President program under such initiative.  Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) The E-CLIP provides a complete package  Office of the Presidential Adviser on of assistance to former rebels, as well as the Peace Process (OPAPP) their immediate family members, who de-  National Housing Authority (NHA) sire to abandon the armed struggle and become productive members of society.

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 41 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

3. HIGHEST STANDARD OF CAPABILITY AND PREPAREDNESS ON DISASTERS ATTAINED In its objective of attaining the highest improve coordination with other agencies standard of capability and preparedness and actors while exploring new ways to to address the consequences of natural integrate risk mitigation measures in HADR. and man-made disasters, the DND shall

The OCD shall continue to be proactive in and accurate dissemination of warnings implementing and monitoring its Disaster and advisories to instill awareness and en- Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) sure safety of the communities. The OCD programs at the local DRRM councils, as shall also shift its focus on prioritizing capaci- well as strengthening linkages with both ty development among 14 basic sectors on international and local partners to its DRRM-CCAM programs and activities enhance cooperation on DRRM-Climate aligned with the government’s socio- Change Adaptation and Mitigation economic agenda of improving its social (CCAM). It shall safeguard the prompt protection program.

PAGE 42 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

HIGHEST STANDARD OF CAPABILITY AND PREPAREDNESS ON DISASTERS ATTAINED

On the other hand, the AFP shall requirements and capabilities to support consolidate and capacitate selected units its HADR units and function. In addition, for first responder's role and improve the Department shall invest in upgrading coordination with other agencies and civil HADR units of the Armed Forces to society organizations for humanitarian International Search and Rescue Advisory assistance and DRRM operations. Further, the Group (INSARAG) standards and develop AFP shall enhance its Communications, basic HADR capability notwithstanding Electronics and Information Systems (CEIS) existing inherent equipment.

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 43 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

4. OPERATIONS IN SUPPORT TO GLOBAL PEACE AND SECURITY IMPROVED AND SUSTAINED

The DND shall deepen its relations with value and has great impact to both the existing defense partners and explore Defense Department and the country. collaboration with potential ones in order to promote Philippine defense interests and The DND shall sustain making modest generate opportunities for capability and contributions to global and regional capacity building. To attain optimal results, peace through its involvement in the DND aims to rationalize its engagement regional organizations and the UN, program with the endview of ensuring that specifically through peacekeeping its activities with its partners are of high missions.

5. GOOD GOVERNANCE UPHELD

The Department will continuously efficiency of government services and undertake institutional reforms to promote eliminating opportunities for graft and good governance by upholding the corruption to strengthen the faith, trust values of integrity, accountability, and and confidence of the people in their transparency. Such institutional reforms will government. have a two-pronged goal of ensuring the

PAGE 44 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S B. DEFENSE MISSION AREAS The Defense Mission Planning Memorandum which the Philippines has sovereignty and/ (DMPM) 2018, signed on 23 January 2018, or enjoy sovereign rights, as wells as space laid out the mission areas which provide and cyber domains. In addition, the the foundation in determining military concept of jointness shall be applied in missions and tasks, as well as in assessing order to improve the overall organizational defense capabilities. In pursuit of its aim to effectiveness and efficiency of the AFP, sustain an effective archipelagic-maritime with the AFP Major Services serving as force defense, the response to threats on providers, and the Unified Commands national peace and security are acting as force employers. Overall, in the categorized into internal and external performance of these tasks, the AFP shall defense mission areas. In this context, continue to uphold and adhere to the the internal environment covers the principles of human rights, international country’s archipelagic area, including its humanitarian law, and the rule of law. territorial sea, and the respective airspace. In line with this, the Defense Department On the other hand, the external focuses its programs, projects and activities environment covers the maritime area over along the following mission areas:

EXTERNAL DEFENSE MISSION AREAS

1. MARITIME AND AIR DEFENSE (MarAD)

MarAD’s operating environment covers the Awareness (ADA) over the Philippine Air De- maritime and air domain of the Philippines fense Identification Zone (PADIZ), which co- beyond its 12NM zone over which it has vers 350NM and beyond. Enhancement of sovereign rights for exploring, exploiting, MDA and ADA has been pursued through conserving and managing living and the conduct of maritime and air patrols, na- non-living resources of the waters and the val and air interdiction, among others. continental shelf underneath, including the seabed and subsoil. In coordination with other agencies, the DND defends the country against Chief among the Defense Department’s transnational crimes and illegal activities tasks in this mission area is the improvement such as island-taking/building, and protects of its capability on Maritime Domain the environment against illegal fishing and Awareness (MDA) over the surface, poaching. sub-surface, and air space; and Air Domain

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 45 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

EXTERNAL DEFENSE MISSION AREAS

MARITIME AND AIR DEFENSE (MarAD)

On the matter of the West Philippine Sea, mechanisms such as the National Coast the DND and AFP will participate in crafting Watch Center and the Area Task Force post-arbitration strategies and policies North. Further, due to the exigency of anchored on the rule of law. With regard immediately securing the Philippine Rise, to the Philippine Rise, the Department the Department shall precipitate a supports the institutionalization of legislative agenda for obtaining authority consolidating efforts of all sectors in the and necessary resources for building Philippine Rise and boosting of existing appropriate capabilities in the area.

PAGE 46 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

2. CYBER SECURITY (CS)

The rapidly changing security environment Skills development of personnel through poses complexities to defense sectors continuous training, information sharing, worldwide, necessitating integration of and capacity and knowledge building on reforms and innovations. Addressing the cyber security monitoring and defense emerging and escalating security threat in will be conducted. Regional and global the field of cyber security is a chief example linkages will be continuously sought to es- of such complexity. To effectively address tablish cooperation in multilateral forums. this dynamic and fast evolving threat, To guide the DND Proper and its bureaus investment in both facilities and personnel on the Department’s policy direction on are essential. cybersecurity, the crafting of a cyber defense strategy or plan in consonance The development of a secure Information with the National Cybersecurity Plan 2022 and Communications Technology (ICT) of the Department of Information and network and infrastructure for the DND and Communications Technology (DICT) will the government shall be prioritized. be endeavored.

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 47 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

3. SECURITY COOPERATION AND ENGAGEMENT (SCE)

The role of defense diplomacy relations optimal results, the DND shall rationalize its has been steadily increasing in this day engagement program with the end view of and age. Seen as an opportunity to ensuring that its activities with its advance our interests, the Defense partners are of high value and great Department shall deepen its relations with impact to both DND and the country. To existing defense allies and like-minded this end, the Department shall endeavor to nations while exploring collaboration with closely collaborate and maintain other potential partners to promote cohesive relationship with our civilian Philippine defense interests and counterparts through strengthening synergy generate opportunities for capability and of embassies and foreign staff. capacity building. In order to attain

PAGE 48 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

INTERNAL DEFENSE MISSION AREAS 1. TERRITORIAL DEFENSE (TD)

TD means defense of the homeland. In territorial seas falls within this mission area. comparison to MarAD, TD’s jurisdiction Case in point, the increasing incidence of covers all the land, water, and air space armed robbery at sea, kidnapping and until the 12-nm territorial seas of the other transnational crimes along the shared Philippines. This mission area aims to uphold areas of the three countries prompted the the country’s territorial integrity by defense ministers of the Philippines, protecting, defending and securing the Malaysia, and Indonesia to enter into a Philippines from intrusions, incursions, and trilateral cooperative arrangement. The actual invasion. The main concern of this trilateral cooperation is also expected to mission area is addressing threats due to beef up the collaboration to counter the overlapping territorial boundaries. Hence, movement of violent extremists and terrorists the conduct of border patrol and defense across the three countries' borders in support to law enforcement against ensuring that the waters remain safe and transnational crimes within the 12nm secure.

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 49 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

2. SECURITY AND STABILITY (SS)

Maintaining peace and stability in order to enforcement operations, and protecting ensure an environment conducive to vital infrastructure are among the pursuits national development is the goal of the in this mission area. The Department shall Defense Department. The DND’s role in relentlessly focus military operations against giving support to national government terrorist groups and terrorist cells, and shall agencies is crucial to this endeavor. As allocate required resources to suppress emphasized in the PDP 2017-2022, ensuring them. The DND shall, likewise, intensify its peace and security is of high priority as it support to civil authorities and other provides the environment necessary for stakeholders in promoting and sustaining other national development strategies to internal stability to foster the foundation for work. Peace and security is the enabling inclusive economic and human develop- factor for Filipinos to enjoy a "Matatag, ment. Support to law enforcement shall be Maginhawa at Panatag Na Buhay." in the fight against criminality and illegal drugs, civil military cooperation, peace

building and advocacy and the Counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism, application of military force against counter- violent extremism, countering terrorists and other threat groups. rebellion, giving support to law

PAGE 50 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

2. SECURITY AND STABILITY (SS)

The DND shall continue its full support to the a secure environment conducive for social peace process, especially in the and economic development. It shall implementation of signed as well as new support the government’s efforts toward agreements. The Department will provide the attainment of economic development support to relevant agencies regarding and social cohesion. The Department, peace tables and provide representatives through the AFP, shall conduct who will actively participate in the talks with development support operations that aim insurgents and secessionists. to sustain the peace, ensure security, and help maintain public order so as to foster In coordination with other departments and the foundation for inclusive economic agencies, the DND shall assist in maintaining growth.

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 51 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

3. HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DISASTER RESPONSE (HADR)

The Philippines’ geographical location is coordination with other agencies and both a boon and a bane. Along with the stakeholders. Responding to disasters rich flora and fauna our country is blessed entails the concerted effort of various with, come frequent weather disturbances. government agencies. Thus, the DND, Added with risks caused by human- through the OCD, shall work closely with induced disasters such as Chemical, local government units and local chief Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and executives, which are often the first Explosives (CBRNE) attacks, there is a need responders in times of disaster. At the same to continuously ensure the safety of citizens time, the AFP, as first responders, together from both natural and man-made hazards. with the OCD, shall work closely for an efficient and effective execution of disaster This mission area is all encompassing as it response plans and programs. The linkages covers the before-during-after disaster with local and international disaster phases by conducting Military Operations response related institutions as well as Other Than War (MOOTW) such as provid- forged agreements with these bodies for an ing support to civilian agencies in the effective disaster response mechanism shall conduct of pre-disaster warnings, search likewise be strengthened to include ASEAN’s and rescue operations, and relief One ASEAN, One Response Declaration, the operations, among others. INSARAG of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs The DND shall consolidate and capacitate (UNOCHA). the AFP and the OCD for humanitarian assistance and DRRM efforts and improve

PAGE 52 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S C. STRATEGIC GUIDANCE TO CIVILIAN BUREAUS 1. GOVERNMENT ARSENAL (GA)

“The Government Arsenal shall formulate plans and programs to achieve self-sufficiency in small arms, mortars and other weapons and munitions for the AFP, PNP, and other government law enforcement agencies, design, develop, manufacture, procure, stockpile, allocate and repair small arms, mortars, and other weapons and munitions and to sell and export excess products and, devise ways and means for the efficient mobilization of the civilian industry to augment the production of the Arsenal in times of emergency.”

The GA shall improve its capability in its and manufacture requirements for the AFP production of munitions and arms and in particular, and law enforcement support the sustainment of existing and agencies, in general, with particular focus future assets to ensure their continuous on meeting the small arms ammunitions. In operational status. Further the GA shall uniformity with this, the GA shall fast-track develop its self-sufficiency and pursue its the development of the Government mandate as part of the Self-Reliant Arsenal Defense Industrial Estate. Defense Posture (SRDP) Program to develop

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 53 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

2. NATIONAL DEFENSE COLLEGE OF THE PHILIPPINES (NDCP)

“To prepare future defense and security leaders for high positions of responsibility and command and undertake strategic research and special studies as basis for the formulation of policies to enhance national defense and security, and programs and projects in pursuit of the DND mission.”

(Mandate based on DND Circular No. 02, 4 May 2007)

As the educational arm of the Department, On the other hand, as the research and the NDCP shall continue to enhance its policy analysis institution of the DND, the curriculum and develop other programs for NDCP shall likewise enhance defense and defense and security leaders and security education and policy research initi- managers. Further, it shall continue to atives to address core, peripheral, and maintain and develop partnerships with emerging security issues as regularly deter- local and international defense and mined by the Department to military educational institutions and related complement the knowledge of defense groups. personnel.

PAGE 54 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

3. OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE (OCD)

“The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) shall have the primary mission of administering a comprehensive national civil defense and disaster risk reduction and management program by providing leadership in the continuous development of strategic and systematic approaches as well as measures to reduce the vulnerabilities and risks to hazards and manage the consequences of disasters.” (Section 8, R.A. 10121, entitled Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010)

Natural and man-made disasters remain to The OCD shall maintain and improve be a core security threat for the DND in the partnerships with other local agencies, areas of managing, mitigating, and NGOs, as well as civilian and military responding to the occurrence of such partners for the sustainment of calamities. coordination, cooperation, and sharing of best practices and technological advance- In addressing this concern, the OCD shall ments in HADR operations and DRRM. continue the enhancement of its facilities to improve its existing capabilities and capaci- To prepare for the creation of a new tate its Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and agency dedicated to implementing DRRM, Management Councils (RDRRMCs) and the OCD shall enhance its personnel personnel for HADR through intensive competency by refocusing on civil education, training and information preparedness as its main mandate. support.

CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES PAGE 55 C H A P T E R V T H E S T RAT E G I C P R I O R I T I E S

4. PHILIPPINE VETERANS AFFAIRS OFFICE (PVAO) The PVAO shall continue in improving its management of veterans’ pensions and benefits and ensure that health services to veterans and their qualified dependents are provided in a prompt and convenient manner. In recognizing and perpetuating the heroic deeds and sacrifices of our soldiers and veterans, the PVAO shall strengthen partnerships with other government agencies, the academe, and private sector in the development of shrines, celebration of commemorative events, and publication of related materials on veterans’ heroism.

“To ensure the welfare and well-being of the veterans and perpetuate the memory of their heroic deeds.” (PVAO Kagitingan Roadmap 2022)

PAGE 56 CHAPTER V THE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES CHAPTER VI

CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE

NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018 - 2022 PAGE 57 C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

“Developing a credible defense and law enforcement capability is a crucial cornerstone of national security and an intrinsic goal of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police modernization programs.”

NSP 2017-2022

As stated in the NSP 2017-2022, the acquisition have been deemed a priority concept of national security has changed strategic industry of the national govern- and expanded to cover virtually every ment. Notwithstanding such efforts, the aspect of life. National security, as defined defense force pushes for necessary in the same document, is a “state or legislative agenda to respond to emerging condition wherein the people’s welfare, and unexpected challenges to defense well-being, ways of life; government and its and security in anticipation of reaching a institutions; territorial integrity; sovereignty; potent level of readiness. and core values are enhanced and protected.” The 2017 12-point National Security Agenda also reiterates the need for effective In line with this, the Defense Department defense and security posture. It prescribes aims to ensure that the Armed Forces is military and border security as a primary fortified with the capacity to preplan and concern. Collective action is called for in accomplish its mission and achieve the achieving self-reliance in defense, to as- effects desired in any anticipated security sume full responsibility for security, protec- environment. tion of the country, and strengthening of

national sovereignty by modernizing capa- In 1996, it was the policy of the State to bilities of our core security sectors. With modernize the armed forces to a level which, the interdependence of security and where it can effectively perform its development can no longer be denied. The constitutional mandate. In response, the all-encompassing concept of national Philippine Congress passed the 15-year security is therefore comprised of different implementation of the AFP Modernization dimensions which present complex Program which was extended for another challenges for the government in its aim to 15 years in 2012. For almost two decades, have a secure and prosperous nation. capability planning, development, and

PAGE 58 CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

A. ACHIEVING RESPONSIVE STATE OF READINESS

To effect proficient state of preparedness, Management (DSOM), the Department is development is dissected to encompass the able to improve and streamline its systems vast classification of capability through core and processes; hence, guaranteeing that components of human resource; doctrines; every resource is utilized in pursuit of a capability, material, and technology; force needed capability founded on a sound structuring and organization; and bases strategy. It serves as the guide for strategic support systems. Through the current planning, capability assessment, acquisition implementation of Defense System of and resource management.

1. HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (HRD)

Precedence is allocated for the and defense scholarships are among development of the personnel component some enablers that develop and trans- of the defense sector, both its uniformed form the defense sector into a compact, and non-uniformed component. effective, efficient, responsive multi-mission Capacitating the human resource of the oriented citizen-based force capable of defense sector is essential to strengthen effectively addressing a vast array of and mold the patriotic spirit and nationalist security threats. Moreover, the HRD consciousness of its personnel and imbibe includes programs on defense leadership respect for people's rights in the and education to build-up competencies performance of their duty. Trainings, of significant posts and assignments. exchanges, development programs,

2. DOCTRINES DEVELOPMENT

The Defense Department and the armed periodic review and validation of doctrines forces shall be responsible for the through field application, testing and exer- generation, evaluation, consolidation and cises; and the dissemination of approved formalization of doctrines; the conduct of doctrines at all levels of command.

CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE PAGE 59 C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

A. ACHIEVING RESPONSIVE STATE OF READINESS

3. CAPABILITY, MATERIAL, AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

The AFP modernization program entails Land defense capability acquisition and the identification, development, production, development will provide adequate and acquisition of capabilities that can ground forces in strategic sites in major is- address identified threats. lands of the country capable of carrying out independent and joint defense Enhancing capabilities for air defense will operations; transport personnel and afford the armed forces airlift, search and equipment rapidly through all kinds of rescue, rapid deployment and related terrain in all kinds of weather conditions; support in combat, as well as disaster and conduct disaster relief and civilian other civilian relief operations. engineering and construction operations; and allow monitoring of compliance with Development of maritime defense the enforcement of all laws relating to the capabilities are geared towards enhanc- preservation and protection of forest, ing naval defense to safeguard the Philip- wildlife and mineral resources, as the proper pine territorial seas, its internal waters, ex- government agency may require. clusive economic zone (EEZ), and other Moreover, combined arms operations, maritime areas where it exercises sover- urban warfare training, intelligence eign rights over from all forms of surface operations, force protection, combat and sub-surface illegal intrusion; to protect engineering capabilities and sustainment all sub-surface lines of communication, during military operations shall be and to monitor all surface and sub-surface enhanced. passage along such waters.

PAGE 60 CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

3. CAPABILITY, MATERIAL, AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Enhancing Joint Command through application of multirole and Control through the development capabilities. of the AFP Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Information, Sur- Enhancing the Capability and Capacity in veillance, Target Acquisitions and Recon- the production of weapons ammunition naissance (C4ISTAR) System, is crucial for and other munitions to support and sustain interoperability, integration, and synchro- the capability development of the AFP in nized joint operations of the armed forces line with the spirit of a self-reliant defense and government efforts. posture as a vehicle towards the attain- ment of the long-sought defense self- General Support capability development is sufficiency thereby contributing in the necessary to achieve unity of effort and maximize efficiency. This initiative entails country’s socioeconomic development. capacitating the overall support system for the armed forces’ joint operations. Its The collaborative engagement in all ensured interoperability shall provide the activities for jointness between civilian and required support in maintaining peace military functional capability areas must and stability and providing contingencies also be ensured.

CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE PAGE 61 C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

4. FORCE STRUCTURING AND ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT It is the mission of the Defense Department disaster relief and rescue operations, while to maintain an armed forces that is efficient continuously contributing to economic and responsive to engage in conventional development and other nontraditional and unconventional warfare such as military roles. internal and external operations as well as 5. BASES/SUPPORT SYSTEM DEVELOPMENT An Overall Strategic Basing Plan that socioeconomic thrusts. A systematic consolidates the role of defense real estate relocation of AFP units that shall management as a vital resource for enhance their capability in the posturing and resource management shall performance of their mission shall be be crafted. Permanent bases for land, air endeavored. Adequate support systems, and naval forces must conform to national housing facilities, and training grounds for defense strategies and the government's units of the armed forces shall be provided.

B. FORTIFYING THE DEFENSE FORCE The multifaceted security challenges the Waters, Search and Rescue, Peace Philippines is experiencing require a Process, Anti-drug War, Public Order and multi-disciplinary approach. With which, a Safety, Maritime Law Enforcement, Total Force framework is essential to adapt Peacekeeping, and Disasters and to such security environment. The frame- Calamities. On the other hand, activities work serves as a guide in developing a during time of conflict include Peace “whole of defense” picture by presenting Enforcement, Counter Terrorism, and the total defense and security posture of Conventional and Unconventional Warfare. the country through identified threats These identified threats across the spectrum across various defense conditions along a represent the challenges the State has to spectrum of peacetime to time of conflict. address. Hence, this necessitates the collaboration and coordination of various Some identified peacetime efforts within sectors of the government, the armed the said framework are Support to National forces, and the citizenry. Development, Protection of Territorial

1. THE WHOLE OF GOVERNMENT Inasmuch as our Constitution rests the task sitating the collaboration and coordination of protecting the people and the State in of various segments of government. The the military and the Defense Department, Total Force framework therefore becomes the DND-AFP is but one contributory player the comprehensive narrative of determining to the overall national security image we threat conditions in which interagency col- desire to achieve. The multifarious security laboration can be established or en- issues the Philippines is experiencing re- hanced. quires a multidisciplinary approach, neces-

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2. THE REGULAR AND THE RESERVE FORCE

The Total Force concept provides a President or declaration of war by complete picture of the existing forces, Congress, to employ the law enforcement which includes manpower, materiel and services to augment its forces. combat systems, capable of counteracting threats to defense and security. This refers Pursuant to the 1987 Constitution and to the whole citizen force of the country, existing laws, various Government forces integrating both the active personnel of the can be tapped to augment the military’s military, its reserve force components, and active and reserve forces during extreme the personnel of other uniformed contingencies. Calling upon these layers of services, into a “total force” with the latter forces are embodied in laws concerning group being ready to serve in contingent uniformed services such as Republic Act security situations. (R.A.) No. 8551 also known as the Philippine

National Police (PNP) Reform Act of 1998, The complex defense and security which averred that “the PNP, the Bureau of concerns of our state has pushed the role Fire Protection (BFP), and the Bureau of Jail of the defense sector to transform. The Management and Penology (BJMP) shall, armed forces’ role evolved from upon the direction of the President, assist traditional gun-fighting defenders of the the armed forces in meeting the national state to non-traditional modern-day emergency.” The same call was directed diplomats and responders in search and to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) in R.A. rescue operations, among others. During 9993, also known as the Philippine Coast times of peace, the DND will take a support Guard Law of 2009, which pronounced role in certain applicable components of that “in times of war, as declared by the total force framework. However, Congress, the Philippine Coast Guard or established is the mandate of the DND and parts thereof shall be attached to the the AFP to lead the total force in times of Department of National Defense.” war and its authority, upon direction of the

CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE PAGE 63 C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

3. THE WHOLE OF NATION - THE CITIZENS’ FORCE

The Department adheres to the Complementing interagency linkages is the whole-of-nation approach (WNA) adopted contingent role of the citizenry enunciated by the national government. It considers in the 1987 Constitution, “the Government interagency engagements as one of the may call upon the people to defend the important means of implementing its whole State and, in the fulfillment thereof, all -of-government component. Efforts toward citizens may be required, under conditions attainment of security and development provided by law, to render personal, military must be anchored on a WNA that seeks to or civil service.” Hence, during extreme bring about a concerted effort among key contingencies, every able-bodied Filipino actors and stakeholders in the govern- may be called to serve. ment, private sector, and the citizenry.

PAGE 64 CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

C. PURSUING POLITICO-LEGAL ENABLERS

To promote a stable environment relevant to the enhancement of the conducive to economic growth and defense sector, the Defense Department national development, the Department continuously engages our partners in the requires the passage of critical legislation to House of Representatives and the Senate. allows it to effectively respond to security The DND Legislative Agenda seeks to challenges on addressing external and in- address key issues faced by the defense ternal threats to territorial integrity and na- institution such as bureaucracy and tional security. organization, defense modernization and To attain the passage of priority bills acquisition, and pension reform.

1) Revised AFP Modernization Act 2) Amendment of the National Defense Act of 1935 3) Defense Acquisition Act (Procurement Law) 4) Mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Act 5) Unified Pension System for the Military and Uniformed Personnel (MUP) 6) Legislative Initiatives Ensuring the Welfare of Veterans and Dependents 7) Other Legislative Measures

1. REVISED AFP MODERNIZATION ACT

Republic Act 7898 was signed into law on Moving forward, the DND shall: 23 February 1995, which aimed to modernize the branches of the AFP. Initially,  Evaluate the status of and ensure the AFP Modernization Program was the implementation of the revised AFP designed to be implemented for fifteen (15) Modernization Program up to its years with an initial funding of P50 Billion. expiration on 2027; However, after receiving funding of about  Identify and develop alternative P41.83 Billion, the law expired in 2010 funding sources aside from the annual without being fully implemented. General Appropriations Act, and Bases Conversion and Development On 11 December 2012, Republic Act 10349 Authority remittances; or the Revised AFP Modernization Program  Evaluate the legal basis for was passed into law. RA 10349 extended requesting unfunded portions of RA the AFP Modernization Program by another 7898 with the Department of Budget fifteen (15) years to “develop and transform and Management; and the AFP into a multi-mission oriented force capable of effectively addressing internal and external security threats.”

CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE PAGE 65 C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

2. AMENDMENT OF THE NATIONAL DEFENSE ACT (NDA) OF 1935 Laws and regulations pertaining to the establishment with the aim of streamlining defense institution are primarily embodied and professionalizing the defense in Commonwealth Act No. 1. Despite bureaucracy through the institutionalization amendments and executive issuances to of defense reforms. the NDA to keep it updated, decades of organizational development, technical The draft of the proposed NDA has been and capability enhancements, and completed by the DND and submitted to technological advances of the AFP legislators for their consideration and spon- inevitably rendered the law obsolete. sorship before the 17th Congress. The DND shall continuously coordinate with members The proposed new NDA seeks to update of Congress, and participate in committee and define key national defense policies, hearings and working group meetings principles and concepts, and codify the called for by the respective Committees of various issuances on national defense, the both Houses of Congress to facilitate the AFP and the civilian bureaus in the defense passage of the NDA into law.

3. DEFENSE ACQUISITION ACT (PROCUREMENT LAW)

The proposed law is a direct response to national security, alternative modes of the call of the President to hasten the procurement, such as direct negotiation procurement of defense equipment with suppliers and government-to-government without sacrificing quality. procurement, shall be available in the acquisition of specialized, highly technical, The proposed bill will provide for a and classified capabilities, equipment, or specialized and protected procurement materiel. process for defense capabilities, while taking into account the sensitive and Provisions to protect the procurement classified nature of the acquisition. process from graft and corruption shall be built-in into the proposed law. Provisions exempting certain acquisitions from public bidding, which generally Upon the approval by the SND of the draft comes with the requirement of publication being prepared by the DND TWG, and posting of the Technical Specifications representations shall be made to members and Terms of Reference of the acquisition, of Congress for their consideration and shall be one of the highlights of the filing of the proposed bill. proposed measure. In the interest of

PAGE 66 CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E

4. MANDATORY RESERVE OFFICERS’ TRAINING CORPS (ROTC) ACT The proposed law seeks to revive the reservists to dwindle to dangerously low mandatory nature of the ROTC. In its levels. This condition may limit the ability of previous iterations, the laws on ROTC made the AFP to effectively respond to disasters it a requirement for graduation of male brought about by natural and students enrolled in colleges and man-made calamities and other universities. Notably, the provisions of the catastrophes whose magnitude is beyond 1987 Philippine Constitution allows the the present capacity of the AFP to address government to call upon its citizens to as it requires the activation of a substantial defend the State and render personal mili- number of reservists. tary service. The draft prepared by the DND Technical The passage of the National Service Working Group has been submitted to Training Program (NSTP) Law repealed the members of both houses of Congress for requirement of ROTC as a prerequisite for consideration and subsequent filing. Sever- graduation of male college and university al versions of the bill have been filed by students. In its present form, the ROTC lawmakers from the House of program is only one of the components of Representatives and Senate, and are the NSTP which resulted in a drastic pending before the various committees. reduction of students electing to enroll in the course. Thus, from around 800,000 The DND conscientiously monitors the pro- cadets in 2000, there were only about gress and participates in the committee 150,000 cadets enrolled in 2011. hearings on the subject to facilitate the passage of a law that meets the require- Considering that ROTC remains to be the ments of the defense establishment. primary source of reservists for the AFP, this trend may cause the number of AFP

CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE PAGE 67 C H A P T E R V I C R E D I B L E D E F E N S E P O S T U R E 5. UNIFIED PENSION SYSTEM FOR THE MILITARY AND UNIFORMED PERSONNEL (MUP) Under the present system, the cost for the pected to double by the end of the pre- benefits granted under the respective AFP sent administration. and the PNP pension and retirement laws Currently, the DND and AFP are participat- are fully borne by the Government ing in two (2) TWGs studying proposed Appropriations Act (GAA). The absence of reforms on the MUP pension systems. One is an operational pension fund necessitates spearheaded by the Bureau of the that the payment of pension benefits to Treasury, while the other is by way of a veterans, and AFP and PNP retirees are Congressional initiative through the Joint provided for through government Committee on Government Enterprises and appropriations. Privatization, and the Committee on Provisions of the present pension laws, Defense and Security of the House of primarily the automatic indexation feature Representatives. At the request of both where pension benefits due to AFP and TWGs, the GSIS is preparing an actuarial PNP retirees are automatically adjusted study based on current data of the AFP, based on the prevailing scale of base pay PNP, PCG and other uniformed services to for active AFP and PNP personnel, caused serve as a baseline to determine financial the pension obligation to grow to more benefits of the proposed reforms on the than P70 Billion. This corresponds to a 2% present pension system. The reforms in the share of the national budget as of the 2017 pension system of MUP to be proposed by GAA. According to projections of govern- the TWGs seek to address the ballooning ment financial managers, unless reforms pension costs by developing a viable and are introduced, pension costs are ex- economically sustainable pension scheme.

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6. LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES ENSURING THE WELFARE OF VETERANS AND DEPENDENTS

There are also proposed laws that serve to which have remained unchanged since address the issues relative to pension and 1994. non-pension benefits. The DND shall work for the continuing One such proposal is the amendment of recognition of the service rendered by the Republic Act 6948 (An Act Standardizing veterans by declaring Victory Day in and Upgrading the Benefits for Military Vet- Kiangan as a national day of celebration erans and their dependents) which seeks to and the declaration of significant battle increase the rate of old age pension and sites as National Military Shrines. rationalize disability pension payments

PVAO’s Skype Validation Program where claimants may send their information online and be verified by PVAO through the video messaging application Skype.

7. OTHER LEGISLATIVE MEASURES

The Department further pursues other dustry and revitalize the SRDP program; the measures that include the conversion of proposed amendments to Republic Act portions of Camp General Antonio Luna in 9372, also known as the Human Security Act Limay, Bataan where the Government Arse- of 2007 to refocus on counter-terrorism; the nal is located into a Defense Industrial proposed bill to revise the Professional Complex; the proposed Philippine Defense Code of the Armed Services (Military Justice Industry Development Act (PDIDA) which System); and the legislative measure to es- aims to develop the Philippine defense in- tablish an independent DRRM authority.

CHAPTER VI CREDIBLE DEFENSE POSTURE PAGE 69 CHAPTER VII

CONCLUSION

PAGE 70 NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018 - 2022 C H A P T E R V I I C O N C L U S I O N

The National Defense Strategy (NDS) of the a sufficiently powerful national defense. How- Department of National Defense provides ever, as stipulated in the NSP, the Philippines readers an overview of the fundamental only allocated between 1.1% and 1.3% of its commitments of the country’s national de- Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on defense, fense establishment: that is to ensure a se- resulting to ageing equipment and underin- cured and prosperous nation capable of vestment on defense capability, and ulti- being a confident player in the community mately causing continuous setbacks in build- of nations. Current key thrusts towards this ing a ready defense force. vision include securing the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the State, promoting Nonetheless, the persistent economic growth and sustaining internal stability, attaining of the Philippines over the past years affords highest standard of capability prepared- the government the ability to allocate mod- ness, improving and sustaining operations in ernization packages for the military as can be support of global peace and security, and gleaned upon the government’s agenda to upholding good governance. ensure sustained efforts for upgrading the

armed forces. Now more than ever, contin- Further, against the complex global security ued full support of the national government architecture and unpredictable changes in is called upon to ensure the the world governments, it must be empha- development of defense sector. sized that the Philippines is steadfast in its advocacy of maintaining and developing

CHAPTER VII CONCLUSION PAGE 71 C H A P T E R V I I C O N C L U S I O N

The challenges addressed in the NDS are tive relationship with alliances and other aimed at contributing to the promotion of nation states. Such initiatives manifest our vision for regional peace, prosperity, and mutual understanding and confidence- stability. The priority legislative pronounce- building among all private and public ments in pursuit of a stable security environ- stakeholders, within and beyond the Re- ment likewise promotes economic growth public’s boarders. It places emphasis in a and national development. whole-of-nation approach in achieving a secure and prosperous nation.

Overall, said document is of import in rais-

In addition to fund security for the moderni- ing awareness on national defense for zation of capabilities in the defense sector, each and every Filipino to better appreci- reinforcing diplomacy and cooperation ate our rights and responsibilities in securing provides a forum for deepening coopera- our nation.

PAGE 72 CHAPTER VII CONCLUSION

NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018 - 2022

E D I T O R I A L D E TA I L S

Angelito M. De Leon Assistant Secretary for Plans and Programs

Director Peter Paul R.G. Galvez Director, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Plans and Programs/ Project Manager

Contributors/Technical Staff: Anna Kristine L. Cagoco Paula Joan G. Castro Belinda B. Cayapan Emielynn E. Francisco Emmanuel Niño Anthonie B. Gabulac

Layout and Design: Perry S. Florendo Anna Kristine L. Cagoco

Photo Credits: Public Affairs Service, Department of National Defense

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Ricardo A. David Jr. Project Sponsor/ Undersecretary for Defense Policy

Teodoro Cirilo T. Torralba III Former Assistant Secretary for Plans and Programs

Participants of the National Defense Strategy Writeshop in April 2018 at the Philippine Military Academy, Baguio City

PAGE 77 NATIONAL DEFENSE STRATEGY 2018 - 2022