AFP clarifies VPSPG reorganized, not disbanded

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has clarified that the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) was not disbanded but was reorganized into the AFP Security and Protection Group (AFPSPG).

This reorganization is part of the AFP's rationalization and streamlining efforts, approved by the Department of National Defense (DND) in February.

The administrative adjustment aims to unify security and protection operations, ensuring continued and robust protection for the Vice President within a more integrated framework.

The newly formed AFPSPG will provide security to the Vice President as well as other VIPs, as approved by the DND.

The original VPSPG was activated in June 2022 to secure then-Vice President Sara Duterte and her immediate family, drawing personnel from the AFP and PNP.

Before the VPSPG, Vice Presidents were protected by the Security and Protection Battalion under the AFP General Headquarters and Headquarters Support Command.