Navy's modernization, better skills vital for external defense

MANILA – The Philippine Navy (PN) on Monday outlined to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. its current status and plans and emphasized the importance of modernization and capability enhancement of the Armed Forces' naval warfare service as the country focuses on external defense.

During its 2nd Quarter Command Conference with the President, Navy Chief, Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. also vowed to continue guarding the country's territorial waters and ensure the safety of Filipinos despite what it called "formidable challenges" in the country's archipelagic defense.

The Philippines recently adopted the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), a deliberate initiative to enhance maritime security and the defensive posture of the country amid Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea.

"The Philippine Navy remains steadfast in its duty to defend our nation's interests, safeguard our waters, and protect our people. While we face formidable challenges, our commitment to accomplishing the mission remains unwavering," Adaci said.

"The Philippine Navy will continue to fight until our nation realizes genuine freedom and security in our waters. As you have said, Sir, 'Filipinos do not yield', " he added, quoting the oft-repeated remark of the Commander-in-Chief when discussing the territorial row with China.

The command conference was also attended by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Romeo Brawner Jr., Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Army Commanding General, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, and Air Force Chief, Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño.

It also provided a platform for other major AFP services to discuss collaborative efforts and integrated defense strategies.

For his part, the President "expressed his continued support to the ongoing efforts of the Philippine Navy and other branches of the AFP,"

He highlighted the "critical role of the Navy in maintaining national security and underscored the need for continuous improvement of defense capabilities to address evolving security challenges."

Teodoro previously stressed the need to adapt defense strategies for the evolving security landscape, prioritizing the fortification not only of maritime borders, but also the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

He said the CADC will allow the AFP to address contemporary threats to Philippine territorial integrity and sovereign rights. (PNA)