As the appointed day arrived, the Generals of the Army, Airforce, and the Admiral of the navy along with Minister of War and Défense Diego and Chief of the Staff Lorenzo dela Cruz assembled in the grand meeting room of the palace. Alfonso, seated at the head of the table, welcomed them with a nod.
"Thank you all for coming," Alfonso began. "I've called this meeting to discuss our nation's defense strategy and preparedness. As we move forward on various fronts, it's imperative that our armed forces are equipped, organized, and ready to safeguard the sovereignty of our newly independent Philippines."
General Ramirez, representing the army, spoke up. "Your Majesty, rest assured, the army stands ready to fulfill its duty. Our soldiers are undergoing rigorous training, and we've been working on refining our tactics to adapt to modern warfare."
Admiral Hernandez, the naval General, added, "Similarly, Your Majesty, the navy has been focusing on enhancing our maritime capabilities. We're strengthening our fleet and establishing protocols for coastal defense and patrolling."
Alfonso nodded in approval. "Glad to hear it. Our defense must be multifaceted, covering land, air, and sea. General Mendoza, how about the airforce?"
General Mendoza, the airforce General, spoke confidently. "Your Majesty, the airforce has been upgrading its aircraft fleet and investing in training our pilots for aerial combat. We're also establishing air defense mechanisms to protect our skies."
Alfonso leaned forward, his gaze focused. "I commend your efforts. Our goal is to have a well-coordinated defense force that can swiftly respond to any threat. We are no longer under colonial rule, and it's our responsibility to ensure our nation's safety."
Admiral Hernandez nodded in agreement. "Your Majesty, as we strengthen our defense, it's also essential to foster relationships with neighboring countries. Diplomacy and cooperation can contribute to regional stability."
Alfonso's lips curved into a slight smile. "Indeed, Admiral. Diplomacy plays a vital role in our security strategy. As we progress, we should seek to build partnerships that promote peace and mutual understanding."
General Ramirez interjected, "Your Majesty, with your permission, I'd also like to suggest investing in our local defense industries. This could enhance our self-reliance and contribute to our economic growth."
Alfonso nodded thoughtfully. "A valid point, General. Building a strong defense can indeed have positive economic implications. It's a step toward not only protecting our nation but also strengthening it from within."
"Thank you for your dedication, Generals. However, in addition to the ongoing changes you are implementing, I have plans for a major overhaul of our Armed Forces," Alfonso continued.
Alfonso began by handing each of the military officials a file containing the proposed restructuring plan.
They opened the file and perused its contents until they reached the section outlining the restructuring. They engaged in discussions about the plan, delving into its details. To provide a concise summary:
The proposed new structure of the Philippine Armed Forces closely resembles the current Armed Forces of the Philippines.
The new Philippine Armed Forces will consist of four coequal military service branches: the Philippine Army, the Philippine Navy, the Philippine Air Force, and the Philippine Coast Guard.
The Philippine Army, responsible for land warfare and various national tasks, will have the following command structure:
1. Chief of Staff, Philippine Army (CSA): The CSA holds the highest rank within the Philippine Army and is in charge of overall command, direction, and management. The CSA reports directly to the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
2. Vice Chief of Staff, Philippine Army (VCSA): Assisting the CSA, the VCSA may assume command in the CSA's absence.
3. Deputy Chief of Staff, Philippine Army (DCSA): The DCSA supports the CSA in multiple areas, including planning, operations, and logistics.
4. Inspector General, Philippine Army (IGPA): The IGPA ensures compliance with regulations, standards, and ethics, and conducts investigations related to discipline and conduct.
5. Commanding General, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC): TRADOC develops and implements training programs, doctrine, and education within the Philippine Army.
6. Commanding General, Philippine Army Reserve Command (ARESCOM): ARESCOM oversees training, mobilization, and utilization of reserve forces during emergencies.
7. Commanding General, Support Command (SUPPORTCOM): SUPPORTCOM provides logistics, engineering, medical support, and communications to ensure operational readiness.
8. Commanding General, Special Operations Command (SOCOM): SOCOM oversees special operations units for unconventional warfare, counterterrorism, and specialized missions.
9. Commanding General, Philippine Army Training and Doctrine Command (PA TRADOC): Responsible for training programs, doctrine, and education within the Philippine Army.
10. Commanding General, Philippine Army Materiel Command (PA MATCOM): PA MATCOM manages equipment maintenance, repair, and procurement.
11. Commanding General, Philippine Army Medical Command (PA MEDCOM): PA MEDCOM provides medical services and support to personnel.
12. Division and Brigade Commanders: Each division and brigade has a commanding general or commander responsible for operations and administration.
The New Philippine Army will consist of the following components:
1. Regular Units: Core forces from divisions to squads for missions like combat and security.
2. Reserve Units: Trained civilians on standby, mobilized in emergencies under ARESCOM.
3. Special Ops Units: Elite teams for unconventional warfare, counterterrorism, and advanced tasks.
4. Support Units: Providing logistics, engineering, medical, and communication services.
5. Training Units: Institutions like PMA educating officers and personnel.
6. Medical Units: Delivering medical care, healthcare, and evacuations.
7. Mechanized & Armor Units: Equipped with tanks and armored vehicles for firepower and mobility.
8. Artillery Units: Handling artillery for indirect fire support.
9. Aviation Units: Using helicopters and aircraft for aerial support, reconnaissance, and transport.
10. Intelligence Units: Gathering and analyzing intelligence for decision-making.
11. Civ-Mil Ops Units: Bridging military-civilian communication in disasters and nation-building.
12. Security & Peacekeeping Units: Engaging in peacekeeping missions at home and abroad for stability.
The Core Competencies of the Army to conduct are:
Territorial Defense: Protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Philippines against external threats.
Counterinsurgency Operations: Countering armed groups and insurgencies within the country to ensure internal security.
Disaster Response and Humanitarian Assistance: Providing aid and relief during natural disasters and emergencies.
Security Operations: Maintaining law and order by conducting security operations to deter criminal activities.
Nation-Building and Community Engagement: Collaborating with communities for development and building trust.
Special Operations: Executing specialized missions such as counterterrorism and intelligence gathering.
Training and Education: Developing skilled soldiers through comprehensive training programs.
Logistics and Support: Providing essential support services like logistics, engineering, and medical assistance.
Mechanized and Armor Capabilities: Utilizing armored vehicles and tanks for enhanced mobility and firepower.
Artillery and Fire Support: Using artillery for indirect fire support in offensive and defensive operations.
Aviation and Aerial Support: Employing helicopters and aircraft for reconnaissance and transport.
Intelligence and Analysis: Gathering, analyzing, and utilizing intelligence for informed decisions.
Peacekeeping and Security Assistance: Engaging in peacekeeping missions to promote stability and conflict resolution.
The Philippine Army's operational structure is organized into distinct subdivisions within its commands:
Corps: Each corps is composed of two to five divisions and is led by a lieutenant general. These corps consist of approximately 20,000 to 45,000 soldiers. Their role is to coordinate and command the divisions within their jurisdiction.
Division: A division is a significant operational unit, typically comprising around 10,000 to 15,000 personnel. It includes support units and is commanded by a major general. Divisions are further specialized into various types, such as airborne, armored, infantry, and mountain divisions, to cater to specific mission requirements.
Brigade: A brigade, commanded by a Brigade Commander, consists of roughly 3,000 to 5,000 personnel. Brigades are designed to operate independently in various scenarios and are responsible for coordinating multiple battalions.
Battalion: Battalions, led by a Battalion Commander, encompass approximately 500 to 800 personnel. These units are the core elements of the army's ground operations, capable of executing a wide range of tactical missions.
Company: A company is made up of about 100 to 250 personnel and is commanded by a Company Commander. Companies provide specialized support and contribute to the overall effectiveness of larger units.
Platoon: Platoon formations consist of around 20 to 40 personnel and are led by a Platoon Leader. Platoon-level units carry out specific tasks and serve as building blocks for larger formations.
Squad: Squads, usually comprising 8 to 12 personnel, are directed by a squad leader. They are the smallest tactical units and execute tasks that require close coordination among team members.