The Philippines is entering a time of tremendous changes in the security environment as we approach the 21st century. The discipline imposed by the superpower rivalry of the Cold War has disappeared but in its place have emerged new challenges to national and regional security. Amidst the promise of greater cooperation fostered by economic growth and interdependence and closer regional understanding brought about by dialogue and consensus, there remain dangers and uncertainties that challenge the security of our people and nation far more than the threat of external aggression. These include territorial and maritime disputes, transnational crimes, ecological degradation and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. Indeed, the challenges we face today and in the coming century underscore the need for continued vigilance in defense in order to preserve domestic stability, to sustain economic development and to advance regional peace and stability.
The nature of national security has changed from the traditional conception of protection from armed threat into its present comprehensive framework which encompasses the political, social and economic aspects of national life. This comprehensive view of security recognizes that the nation's security and well-being are founded on a stable and secure environment where people can freely pursue higher goals in life and meaningfully contribute to national growth and progress. Such an environment is dependent upon a nation's ability to safeguard and protect its national interests. This ability requires the maintenance of a professional, capable and responsive armed forces whose existence guarantees that our country can freely undertake its goals of development.
Amidst these changes, the trinity of the government, the military and the people still holds as the foundation of our nation's security. However, there is a need to rethink our security concerns and to reengineer and reinvigorate the entire defense establishment so it can effectively deal with the complex and changing demands of national security and defense in the 21st century. A prudent and transparent Department of National Defense-crucial to the building of a credible defense posture respected by our neighbors, responsive to emerging threats and that provides confidence to our people-is what we owe the citizenry. To build a credible defense posture requires a sound national defense policy supported by the people in accordance with the Constitution. This defense policy must necessarily be based on well-defined national security objectives and approach supported by a realistic military strategy, valid operational doctrine, responsive equipment and a sound organization.
In Defense of the Philippines: 1998 Defense Policy paper is in response to many changes occurring in our security environment and the imperative of strengthening the Defense Department to effectively meet the numerous challenges and opportunities that lie before us. This policy paper defines the roles and functions of the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. It aims to provide a strategic guidance to Defense bureaus, as well as to other government agencies and non-governmental organizations involved in defense-related work for the formulation of plans, programs and functional policies. This paper is also part of the Philippines' commitment to promoting transparency in defense matters for confidence building in the Asia-Pacific.
This Defense Policy Paper could not have come at a more auspicious time when we are celebrating the centennial year of the Philippine Republic of 1898. As the first republic in Asia, we were sandwiched between a bloody revolution against Spain and a bloodier war against the United States of America. The Filipino's heroic spirit was manifested once more against Japan during World War II -in Bataan, Corregidor and in the resistance movement- and in the early campaigns against insurgency. It continues to be manifested today as we fight the remaining vestiges of communism and secession. The Filipino spirit to defend with their lives our freedom and democracy is the bedrock of this Defense Policy Paper.
As defense is the concern of every citizen, the development of this Defense Policy Paper necessarily involved a consultation process with eminent persons and organizations involved, directly and indirectly, in defense and security policy-making and research. The Department of National Defense acknowledges with gratitude the assistance of the National Security Council, the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the individuals and organizations of the Council for Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific (CSCAP) Philippines, in the development of this Defense Policy Paper.
This paper is to be subjected to periodic review after its maiden publication to ensure that our national defense policy reflects the demands and challenges of the times. This is a dynamic document which must regularly undergo a thorough strategic and doctrinal review if it is to be a sound and relevant guide to defense and military planners. It is my hope that this paper can serve to enlighten our citizenry on the importance of defense and security in their lives.
Fortunato U. Abat
Secretary of National Defense
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