BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16) and BRP Domingo Deluana (PG-905) sail during the simulated island seizure exercise as part of the AJEX DAGIT-PA 08-2024 on November 6, 2024 at Kota Island in the West Philippine Sea. Photo courtesy LTC SALGADO/PAOAFP/File
MANILA — The Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have reiterated the military’s move to prioritize territorial defense this 2025.

During this year’s New Year’s Call at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Friday, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. urged the DND and AFP to remain steadfast in protecting national sovereignty and upholding humanitarian values.

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He emphasized that the defense establishment must "not allow the Philippines to be subjected to any distortions in narratives or momentum."

"Every life is precious, and ‘no one left behind’ is our commitment—not only to our people but also to our international commitments," Teodoro said.

The secretary also thanked the Philippines’ foreign partners for their support in upholding the country’s sovereignty and sovereign rights under international law.

AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr., meanwhile, laid down the military’s priorities for 2025, including the modernization of the armed forces, enhancement of defense capabilities, and establishment of a strong presence in strategic areas of the country.

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"We will enhance our naval, aerial, ground, air defense, and cyber capabilities to protect our resources and ensure the security of our waters, always adhering to international law," Brawner said.

The traditional New Year’s Call was attended by defense and military officials, foreign military attaches, enlisted personnel, and civilian staff. 

The event provided a platform to showcase the DND and AFP’s 2024 achievements and to share the leadership’s vision for 2025.

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