CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officially activated the Civil-Military Operations (CMO) Command in a ceremony held on November 13, here. The event was presided over by AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S Brawner Jr., who served as Guest of Honor and Speaker.
The activation reflects the AFP’s strategic shift to prepare for the evolving landscape of Multi-Domain Operations, particularly in the information and cognitive domains. It underscores the military’s commitment to integrating civil-military efforts with modern information operations to enhance situational awareness, influence, and decision-making across the force.
Lieutenant General Arvin R Lagamon assumed command as the first head of the newly established CMO Command. His formal donning of ranks during the ceremony symbolized the trust placed in him to lead the command in executing its mission.
In line with this transformation, the AFP deactivated the Civil Relations Service (CRSAFP). Its Commander, Major General Oliver C Maquiling, was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the organization.
The CMO Command will integrate civil-military operations with information and cognitive warfare, aligning communication, community engagement, and stakeholder coordination to enable the AFP to respond effectively to modern challenges while maintaining credibility and public trust in an increasingly complex multi-domain battle space.
Photos by SSg Ambay PA / PAOAFP
