AFP seeks to recruit cybersecurity, AI, other tech experts in expanded program. Unsplash
MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is preparing to expand its direct commission program to recruit professionals with expertise in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI) engineering, technology, and other critical fields, as the military adapts to evolving security challenges.
AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla said the expansion is part of the AFP’s modernization efforts, emphasizing that strengthening the military now goes beyond acquiring new weapons and equipment.
“Ang modernong AFP po ay para siyang isang smartphone. Hindi po sapat na meron tayong bagong hardware; kailangan rin pong meron tayong mga pinakabago at magagaling na mga applications. So, hindi lang po tayo nagdadagdag ng tao. Tayo po ay nagdadagdag ng expertise,” Padilla said in a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
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She explained that modern warfare is no longer limited to traditional battlefields, with cyberoperations, the information domain, laboratories, and command centers becoming increasingly important in national defense.
“Sa panahon ngayon, ang laban po natin hindi lang po dun sa battlefield na talagang kinikilala natin on the ground. Nasa cyberspace na po tayo, sa information domain, and andyan po ‘yung laboratories and command centers din natin. And so, talent, in this case, is a force multiplier,” the official said.
The AFP hopes the expanded direct commission program will bring in Filipino professionals who can contribute specialized knowledge in technology-driven fields that have become increasingly vital to national security.
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According to Padilla, these professionals will complement soldiers on the frontlines by providing innovations and technical capabilities that can serve as force multipliers.
“So, this initiative reflects our commitment to build a future-ready AFP where excellence, innovation, and service to the country go hand in hand,” Padilla said.
The initiative is anchored on the policy direction of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who has stressed that “modern defense requires modern minds.”
The Department of National Defense (DND) on Saturday announced the policy, while the AFP is now crafting the implementing guidelines for the expanded direct commission program.
Once finalized, the military will release details on the application process and eligibility requirements through official announcements from the DND and the AFP’s major service branches.
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