Armed Forces of the Philippines

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is composed of three major services, namely, the Philippine Navy (PN), the Philippine Army (PA), and the Philippine Air Force (PAF). The organization is loosely based on the structure of the United States military, which it was patterned after during the Commonwealth era. Considered one of the most battle-hardened, professional armies in the world due to their long exposure to left-wing Communist insurgency, various Muslim separatist groups, various extreme right-wing groups, and various international campaigns in support of democracy.

The AFP also engages in nonmilitary activities, such as providing disaster relief, constructing civilian housing, and participating in literacy campaigns. Its foundation day is celebrated every December 21st. The principal defense training institutions are the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDC) and the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

The AFP has been a major partner of OPAPRU in the GPH-MILF Peace Process, especially on the Security Aspect of the Normalization Program. As peacekeepers, their role as members of the Joint Peace Security Teams (JPSTs) has been critical in the maintenance of peace and order in BARMM and adjacent regions. Moreover, AFP officials are also part of the Normalization Program mechanisms, and some hold chairpersonship positions that provide strategic guidance in the implementation of the said Program.

Aside from these, the AFP has also supported the operations of the transitional components (Joint Normalization Committee (JNC), Joint Peace and Security Committee (JPSC), and JPST), decommissioning of MILF forces and weapons, disbandment of Private Armed Groups, management of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), redeployment of AFP, and detection/recovery of Unexploded Ordnances (UXOs) and landmines.

Notably, the AFP continues to support the ceasefire mechanisms and adhere to the ceasefire agreement, which contributes to the overall commitment of the Government to ending armed conflict.

The efforts of the AFP, as an organization, embody the essence of peacekeeping through their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, security, and stability in the nation. Their efforts go beyond military might, demonstrating an understanding that true peace is built on cooperation, dialogue, and support for all communities.