DND AND AFP:
TRANSFORMING WHILE PERFORMING

 

Since the 1970's, the Philippines has undergone a cycle of boom and bust economic performance. The country has experienced few, short periods of growth but has never sustained it unlike some of its "newly industrialized neighbors".

Presently, however, the economic situation is improving with an indicative 6.1 percent growth rate, an 11.3 percent increase in approved foreign investments and nearly 2 million tourist arrivals. These figures are encouraging, despite the volatile national security environment. If the country is free from the threats of insurgency, secessionism and terrorism, then it could soar to greater heights. The challenge, therefore is how to make the current growth sustainable.

The Department of National Defense (DND) and its primary bureau, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), play a crucial role in maintaining a growing ecomony. 

The mission of DND is "to provide and maintain the conditions of security, stability and peace and order conducive to economic growth and national development". The AFP is mandated to uphold the sovereignty, support the Constitution and defend the territory of the Republic of the Philippines against all enemies, foreign and domestic; promote and advance the national aims, interests and policies; and plan, organize, maintain, develop and deploy its regular and citizen reserve forces for national security. Through the years, the DND and AFP have remained steadfast and active in protecting the nation from threats that have eaten up our resources and hindered lasting economic growth. 

The Philippine defense establishment can respond to national security concerns competently and effectively with increased capacities and enhanced capabilities. The Philippine Defense Reform is the key to the improvement of these defense capabilities and competencies.

Thus, as the DND and AFP fulfill their basic missions, they shall also strive to transform into a highly mission-capable, strong and responsive defense force through the Philippine Defense Reform

 
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