BBM to AFP: Maximize, reassess troop deployment

With the military shifting its focus to external threats, President Marcos has ordered the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to review its troop deployments to make them more "responsive to the current and future geopolitical realities."

- Helen Flores, Michael Punongbayan, Evelyn Macairan, Mark Ernest Villeza

Marcos gave the directive to the AFP and the Department of National Defense (DND) yesterday in his message at the 67th founding anniversary of the Naval Special Operations Command (NAVSOCOM) at the Naval Base Heracleo Alano in Sangley Point, Cavite.

"As we move now from focusing on ensuring internal security for the country, we now have to bolster the country's external defenses. And I exhort the DND and the AFP to maximize and strategically review the deployment of our forces to ensure that their strategies remain responsive to the current and future geopolitical realities," the President said.

The NAVSOCOM, with its expertise in sea, air and land or SEAL operations, must be utilized to support naval defense and enhance maritime security, Marcos said.

The President's order came in the light of China's growing aggressiveness in the West Philippine Sea.

On Oct. 22, Unaizah May 2, an AFP-contracted supply boat, and Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Cabra were "harassed" and "intentionally hit" by Chinese coast guard and militia vessels while en route to Ayungin Shoal to unload provisions for troops stationed on the beached BRP Sierra Madre. The incident was just one of the cases of provocative and dangerous actions of the Chinese in the West Philippine Sea against Filipino vessels.

Marcos cited the crucial role of the Navy's elite unit in fighting terrorist groups and other lawless elements as well as in curbing smuggling and other illegal activities.

He also lauded the NAVSOCOM for supporting the AFP's internal security efforts, particularly in southern Philippines.

"Let us also continue harnessing the skills of our specialized units in preparing for all contingencies," Marcos, AFP's commander-in-chief, said.

He urged the Navy to continue honing the skills of its officers and personnel and to sustain collaboration with its counterparts from like-minded nations.