CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—Senior leaders of the Armed Forces of the Philippines convened in a forum on April 2 here to consolidate support for gender and development programs in the military.

In partnership with United Nations Women Philippines and the Philippine Commission on Women, the Senior Leaders’ Forum on Gender and Development became an avenue for discussions on women participation in government and highlighted their role in peace and security. 

CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City--General Romeo Brawner Jr, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, boarded HMAS Warramunga in a tour hosted by its commanding officer, Commander Jennifer Graham, on April 2 in Puerto Princesa City.

HMAS WARRAMUNGA, a long-range frigate capable of air defence, surface and undersea warfare, surveillance, reconnaissance and interdiction, is in a port call in Palawan. 

The call and visit is part of the AFP's military diplomacy activities aimed at strengthening military relations with partner nations. It is also covered under the PH-AUS Status of Visiting Forces Agreement.

I urge every remaining member of the New People's Army (NPA) to take a moment of reflection and reconsideration. The armed struggle only brought about suffering and division. It is time to break the cycle of violence and embrace the possibility of peace. It is time to lay down your arms and abandon the armed struggle. 

The opportunity to reintegrate into society, to reunite with your loved ones, and to lead productive lives awaits you. Let us not allow ourselves to be further ensnared in the web of conflict and strife. It is time to chart a new course towards reconciliation and healing.