Armed Forces of the Philippines

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is the military organization responsible for defending the Philippines. Recent news highlights several aspects of its current activities and challenges. Firstly, the AFP is participating in joint military training exercises with the US, known as Balikatan, which will include Japanese combat troops for the first time in decades, signaling a shift in Indo-Pacific security strategies. Secondly, the AFP has been compelled to address public concerns regarding potential threats to national security stemming from the Philippines' defense ties with the US, specifically claims about Iran targeting the country. This narrative is being amplified by allies of former President Duterte. Finally, a file photo of Duterte addressing AFP troops was used in an article about the ICC finding him fit to stand trial, indirectly linking the AFP to the ongoing legal proceedings against the former president. These events underscore the AFP's role in regional security dynamics, domestic political discourse, and international legal matters.