By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently convened the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) first-semester Command Conference, receiving a comprehensive assessment of the military’s operational gains and strategic priorities in what marked the final conference of outgoing AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr.
Held at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, the conference brought together the AFP’s senior leadership and top defense officials to present updates on the military’s campaign plan, operational accomplishments, and long-term security objectives.
As Commander-in-Chief, Marcos was briefed on the progress of ongoing military operations, modernization efforts, and programs aimed at strengthening national defense, safeguarding territorial integrity, and enhancing the country’s overall security posture.
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the conference reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to building a modern, highly capable, and mission-ready Armed Forces capable of responding to evolving internal and external security challenges.
Military commanders also presented the AFP’s accomplishments over the past year while outlining key initiatives and operational priorities intended to reinforce the country’s defense capabilities in the years ahead.
The command conference serves as the AFP’s principal strategic review, where military leaders evaluate the implementation of campaign plans, assess operational performance, and formulate responses to emerging national security concerns.
Also attending the conference was Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., together with senior commanders representing the AFP’s major service branches and unified commands nationwide.
The meeting carried added significance as it marked the last command conference of Brawner, who is scheduled to retire on July 20 after more than 41 years of military service.
Brawner will become the first Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to complete the full fixed three-year term mandated under Republic Act No. 11939, which established a fixed tenure for the AFP’s top military post to ensure leadership stability and continuity.
Malacañang has yet to announce Brawner’s successor, although Palace officials have said President Marcos is seeking a military leader who is trustworthy, patriotic, God-fearing, hardworking, and deeply committed to protecting the country’s sovereignty and advancing the welfare of the Filipino people.
ia/xf
