CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Multi-Sector Governance Council (MSGC) successfully concluded its first quarter meeting in Batanes, culminating in a significant visit to Mavulis Island, the northernmost part of the Philippines.
The meeting, held on March 24, 2025 was focused on enhancing maritime domain awareness, addressing the province’s peace and security situation in line with the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept, and strengthening Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) capabilities.
The meeting was attended by key figures, including Hon. Ignacio C. Villa, Provincial Vice Governor of Batanes; LtGen Rommel P Roldan PAF, The Deputy Chief of Staff, AFP; Mr. Francisco Del Rosario Jr., AFP MSGC Chairperson; BGen Joel M Paloma PA, AFP MSGC Head Secretariat and Chief, Office for Strategic Studies and Strategy Management; Mr. Justinne H. Socito, Public Administrator, Provincial Government of Batanes; and Ms. Melissa Gretchen C. Pama, Department Head, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, Batanes.
The AFP MSGC, a vital advisory body composed of leaders and experts from various sectors, plays a crucial role in guiding the AFP in the implementation of its transformation roadmap towards its vision of becoming a world-class armed force.///
Photos by: A1C Castro PAF / PAOAFP
EXERCISE BALIKATAN | The Philippine Navy 3rd Naval Combat Engineer Battalion and the US Army 523rd Engineering Support Company held a groundbreaking ceremony on March 22, for the Sitio Manggahan Community Health Center, Rizal, Palawan as part of the Humanitarian Civic Action (HCA) program of Exercise Balikatan 40-2025. This initiative reflects the strong Philippines-U.S. partnership, demonstrating their shared commitment to community development.
Through Balikatan, both forces enhance interoperability while directly supporting local needs, ensuring a lasting impact beyond military training. With construction now underway, the health center will soon serve as a vital resource for residents, strengthening local healthcare services.
Photos by: 3NCEBn
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City — General Romeo S Brawner Jr, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), concluded a significant participation in the Raisina Dialogue 2025 held in New Delhi, India from March 17-19, 2025.
General Romeo S Brawner Jr’s participation marked the AFP's first-ever appearance at the prestigious annual global forum hosted by the Observer Research Foundation in partnership with the Government of India, where policymakers, military officials, and experts converge to deliberate on pressing global issues, particularly in security and defense.
During the dialogue, General Brawner engaged in crucial discussions focused on regional security and defense cooperation. Notably, he proposed the expansion of the 'Squad' security grouping to include India and South Korea, aiming to bolster collective security efforts in the Indo-Pacific region.
Highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the Philippines and India, General Brawner underscored the AFP's commitment to enhancing military capabilities through collaboration.
The AFP Chief of Staff also emphasized the significance of ongoing cooperation, including training exchanges, the acquisition of advanced defense systems like the BrahMos missile system, and joint maritime exercises.///
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), through its Gender and Development (GAD) Office, successfully held the "Run with Her" Fun Run on March 22,2025 at the Lapu-Lapu Grandstand, here.
This event, themed "Celebrating Women's Strength and Empowerment through Fitness, Health, and Well-being," was a highlight of the AFP's month-long observance of National Women’s Month 2025.
The Fun Run brought together military personnel, civilian employees, and advocacy groups to highlight the importance of women’s empowerment and well-being.
Lieutenant General Rommel Roldan, PAF, The Deputy Chief of Staff, AFP, represented the AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S Brawner Jr, as he emphasized the significant role of women in the military, praising their courage and dedication.
“Our women serve with distinction and valor, standing at the forefront of innovation, leadership, and service. Their contributions have not only elevated our operational readiness but have also set a solid example for future generations, proving that true strength is born of courage, perseverance, and a steadfast dedication to duty.”///
Photos by: SSg Manzano PA / PAOAFP
