AFP seeks to focus on territorial defense in 2015

MANILA, Philippines — The military aims to focus on a gradual transition toward territorial defense next year even as it admitted that some parts of the country are still beset with internal security problems.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Col. Restituto Padilla said while internal peace and security plan Bayanihan is on track in most provinces, some areas still need to be cleared of insurgency.

"We are committed to transition to territorial defense but for as long as there are packets within the archipelago that need AFP presence because of the security situation, we will stay until the business is done," Padilla said in a recent interview.

"While we made some assumptions, there are developments that we cannot control," he added.

Despite the remaining internal security issues, the military is starting to develop its territorial defense capabilities.

"We are expecting the delivery of several equipment. The main reason they were acquired is territorial defense," Padilla said.

"We will use them as we gradually transition (to territorial defense) so we can include them in our doctrine. That will be our focus next year," he added.

Under Bayanihan, the military would focus on addressing internal armed threat groups from 2011 to 2013.

The final three years would devoted to handing over the lead role in ensuring internal peace and security to appropriate government agencies namely the police and the local executives. The turnover will allow the AFP to shift its focus to territorial defense.

The Department of Defense's planning guidance for 2013 to 2018 directs the military to conclude internal security combat operations by 2014.

As 2014 draws to a close, provinces are still grappling with communist insurgency and lawless groups. The strength of the communist rebellion in the country remains at 4,000 while that of the Abu Sayyaf stands at about 400.

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The need to shift focus on territorial defense was highlighted by China's aggressive expansion in the West Philippine Sea, including its occupation of some areas under the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

Bayanihan to be extended?

Padilla admitted that the handover of the lead role in maintaining internal peace and security to civilian agencies might be delayed in some areas.

Padilla said among the areas that are still facing communist insurgency are Compostela Valley, Agusan and Surigao provinces and parts of Bicol region.

The military is still addressing threats posed by lawless groups in Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi, he added.

Padilla said the AFP may recommend the extension of Bayanihan in some areas if the internal security threats persist.

"If necessary and if the objective of IPSP (internal peace and security plan) Bayanihan is not yet attained, the armed forces may recommend (an extension in some areas)," the military spokesman said.

"We are doing an assessment primarily to ascertain if it (extension) is needed," he added.