Marcos Jr. directs AFP to be capable of independent defense for 30 days

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to be capable of defending the country independently for up to 30 days in case of conflict, according to AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.

Brawner stated that allies and partners expect the Philippines to initially engage in conflict on its own before external support arrives.

This directive underscores the importance of the AFP's unilateral defense capabilities and the ongoing war games, AJEX DAGIT-PA.

The AFP chief emphasized the need for self-reliance during the initial stages of any potential war, highlighting the critical role of their preparedness.

The goal is for Filipino forces to sustain their defense efforts for at least 20 to 30 days until reinforcements from the Mutual Defense Treaty can reach them.