Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. (Photo courtesy of DND)
MANILA – The Philippines is only building up its defensive capabilities and is not engaged in an arms race, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said on Wednesday.
"It seems to me that before other countries interfere (with) the creation of our credible defense posture, they should first stop their illegal activities, get out of the West Philippine Sea (WPS), take away their ballistic capabilities, destroy their nuclear arsenal, before they interfere with our creating a credible deterrent," he said at the sidelines of the Asian Defense and Security Exhibition (ADAS) 2024 being held at the World Trade Center in Pasay City.
The Defense chief issued the statement in reaction to claims that China has expressed alarm over ongoing efforts to build up Philippine defense posture.
Teodoro maintained that the Philippines will do what it needs to beef up its defensive capabilities.
"We will do what needs to be done to create a credible deterrent posture," he said.
The DND chief also said China is using "reverse psychology" to deter the country from building its defensive capabilities.
"So, as I said, before they start talking, why don't they lead by example? Destroy their nuclear arsenal. Remove all their ballistic missile capabilities. Get out of the WPS and get out of Mischief Reef. I mean, don't throw stones when you live in a glass house and that goes for other countries also that are worried about our defensive capability enhancement. Don't throw stones if you live in glass houses," he said.
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., who was also present in the event, said the country's is looking for "big-ticket items" that will allow its military to comply with the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept" (CADC).
He said these "big ticket items" include naval ships for the Navy to have an "effective presence" in the WPS, platforms for maritime patrols, and multi-role fighters that augment the existing fleet of FA-50PH light combat aircraft.
When asked if the AFP is looking to acquire the US-made Mid-Range Capability (MRC) Typhon missile system which is still in the country and being used for training purposes by American and Filipino troops, Brawner said he would like to, but stressed there is a need to first develop the country's cyber defense capabilities and other infrastructure in order for the military to support these high-tech platforms.
ADAS 2024
In a separate statement, the DND said Teodoro, representing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., officially opened this year's ADAS 2024.
The event, which runs from Sept. 25 to 27, 2024, brings together key stakeholders in defense, security, and crisis management to explore the latest technologies and foster collaboration.
Teodoro commended ADAS as a platform for showcasing the world’s most advanced defense technologies and systems, creating valuable opportunities for partnerships and cooperation.
He emphasized the importance of strategic decision-making in the defense sector, underscoring that the Philippines has a clear understanding of its needs and priorities.
"The Philippines knows what it needs and what it wants. We know what we don’t need and what we don’t want. But what we don’t need and don’t want, other countries may want. So let’s join hands to produce in this country, sustainably, what the Philippines needs and wants, and what other countries need but we don’t want. Fair enough?" Teodoro said, stressing the need for sustainable approaches in defense initiatives.
Global security
Teodoro delivered the Chief Executive's message highlighting the pivotal role of ADAS in enhancing security not just in the Asia-Pacific but globally.
Marcos highlighted the importance of comprehensive, cooperative efforts to tackle emerging security challenges, including cyber threats, natural disasters, and geopolitical tensions.
“Over the past decade, ADAS has evolved into a premier platform for dialogue and collaboration among governments, military institutions, and defense contractors. This evolution underscores our shared understanding that the complexities of modern security threats cannot be effectively addressed in isolation,” Marcos said.
The President reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to multilateral platforms such as ASEAN, along with its robust bilateral relationships, which have been critical in responding to crises and safeguarding citizens.
“In the Philippines, our experiences in humanitarian assistance and disaster response have demonstrated the profound impact of a shared purpose. Through multilateral platforms such as ASEAN and strong bilateral partnerships, we have successfully responded to crises, ensuring the safety of our citizens,” Marcos said.
The President stressed the need for engagement with technology providers to build mutual trust and fortify global partnerships.
“As we engage with the diverse capabilities of technology solution providers, let us approach this exhibition as more than a mere showcase of advancements. It represents a unique opportunity to share best practices, exchange innovative ideas, and build mutual trust and confidence among nations,” he added.
ADAS 2024 will feature live demonstrations, product presentations, and networking opportunities with global leaders in defense and security.
The event will also host a series of symposiums and panel discussions, offering expert insights into trends, innovations, and strategies shaping the future of defense and disaster management in the region. (PNA)
