President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. received updates from the Armed Forces of the Philippines on its operational accomplishments, modernization efforts, and security priorities during the 2026 AFP Command Conference at Camp Aguinaldo, ahead of the retirement of AFP chief Romeo Brawner Jr. on July 21.
Military leaders outlined strategies to strengthen internal and external security, including continued modernization, territorial defense, and humanitarian assistance operations.
Brawner said the AFP will sustain maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea and continue joint military exercises with the United States and other allied nations while addressing China’s alleged illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions.
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. said the President directed the military to remain steadfast in defending the country’s sovereignty, stressing that diplomacy must be backed by credible deterrence.
The conference also highlighted the AFP’s commitment to maintaining security gains and preparing for evolving regional challenges through stronger defense capabilities and international partnerships.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 8, 2026
