Gibo warns government vs falling behind in defense buildup

FORT DEL PILAR, Baguio City, Philippines — Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has warned that the Philippines cannot afford to be timid in building its defense capabilities, saying a conservative approach could make the country a regional laggard.

Speaking during the Philippine Military Academy’s 128th foundation anniversary on Saturday, Teodoro challenged the PMA to pursue bolder development plans and strengthen military education to produce combat-ready officers for the three branches of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and, after three years, the Philippine Coast Guard.

“Graduates must possess the knowledge, military ethics and tactical skills needed for immediate deployment,” Teodoro said. “Every graduate of this institution is a war fighter.”

Teodoro warned that rapid technological advances, shifting security threats and the weaponization of information demand a more adaptable military leadership and stronger institutional capabilities. 

He stressed that national defense goes beyond combat, relying equally on intelligence, logistics, personnel welfare and other support functions, as security threats evolve and challenges to the country’s sovereignty intensify.

The defense chief called for faster modernization, better infrastructure and expanded training facilities to strengthen the military’s ability to operate across the country’s vast maritime domain amid growing regional security challenges.

“The Philippines must build the capabilities needed to enforce its laws and protect its national interests,” Teodoro said.

Teodoro pushed for a multidisciplinary, continuously updated PMA curriculum, as he emphasized that education builds knowledge while training develops practical skills.  

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police has mobilized 3,670 PNP personnel from various government agencies to secure the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Cebu from Oct. 28 to 31.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered the Central Visayas Police to raise its alert status and strengthen intelligence monitoring despite the absence of identified threats.

Security coverage includes the conference venue, hotels, convoy routes and key locations expected to be visited by delegates.

Police deployment will continue until Nov. 1 to cover the delegates’ departure.

Authorities are also conducting advance security inspections, traffic management and contingency planning for the movements of defense officials.

Nartatez said the PNP would remain vigilant and coordinate with partner agencies to ensure a safe and orderly gathering. — Mark Ernest Villeza

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