Prudence over paranoia: The AFP’s leadership in times of tension
In an age when headlines often overshadow substance, sensational soundbites dominate public discussions, and misinformation spreads unchecked, messages are easily distorted and frequently taken out of context. Such has been the case with the recent statement from the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), General Romeo Brawner Jr., which was swiftly caught in the crosshairs of online misinterpretation and political speculation.
Addressing the Northern Luzon Command last week, General Brawner pointed out that any conflict involving Taiwan could inevitably impact the Philippines.
He urged his troops stationed in the north, nearest to Taiwan, to brace for possible scenarios, particularly highlighting the importance of being ready to evacuate Filipino citizens and the likelihood of the country playing a role should tensions escalate in the region.
This command came amid rising friction between China and Taiwan, fueled by intensified military drills and the recent transit of the Shandong aircraft carrier through the Taiwan Strait.
The messaging itself was clear and unambiguous, yet it has been either deliberately distorted or misinterpreted by some, for reasons that remain uncertain. Whether this was done intentionally or due to a genuine misunderstanding, the outcome has been the unnecessary spread of panic.
Such distortions, whether deliberate or accidental, contribute to confusion, anxiety, and the undermining public confidence. This not only disrupts rational discourse but also heightens fear, leading to reactions that may be disproportionate to the actual situation.
The Malacañang and other government officials immediately came to the defense of the AFP General and his remarks. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin clarified that the Philippine government is not speculating on when, or even if, an invasion might occur. The concern is ensuring the country is prepared and not caught off-guard. This is the context behind General Brawner’s pronouncement.
Senator Joel Villanueva expressed support for General Brawner’s standpoint, affirming their trust in his judgment as the head of the Armed Forces, entrusted with the responsibility of protecting both the people and the state. He emphasized the Senate’s confidence in the readiness of the military to defend the country’s territory under any circumstance.
This readiness, however, should not be mistaken for a declaration of war. The Philippines is not preparing for conflict, but rather for the protection of its people. With over 200,000 Filipinos living and working in Taiwan, any potential flashpoint in the Taiwan Strait becomes a deeply personal matter for our nation, underscoring the need for proactive measures rather than escalation.
In this context, vigilance is a form of diplomacy in uniform. When a country can assure its citizens that it is set to respond to emergencies, it not only strengthens national unity but also projects a sense of responsibility to the international community.
Critics who cry wolf at the AFP’s contingency planning fail to understand the nuanced role of the military in today’s complex security environment. General Brawner’s words are not sabre-rattling. Rather, they are a rational response rooted in duty, anticipation, and a moral imperative to safeguard Filipino lives.
The Philippines maintains the One China Policy, which means we acknowledge the government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in Beijing as the legitimate governing body of all of China, including Taiwan.
The policy is based on the belief that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, and this stance is consistent with the diplomatic position held by most countries worldwide. As a result, the Philippines maintains unofficial, non-diplomatic relations with Taiwan, primarily through the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO). This de facto office functions similarly to an embassy but does not carry formal diplomatic recognition.
Hammering on the point of the AFP Chief of Staff, our strategic preparedness is not an assertion of hostility. It is a doctrine practiced by responsible militaries across the world. The Philippines’ adherence to the One China Policy does not, and should not, exclude it from protecting its nationals abroad in case of crisis.
The AFP’s focus on non-combatant evacuation operations (NEO), in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Migrant Workers, and regional allies, is a textbook example of how modern military institutions should operate in peacetime—planning for problems without escalating them.
In truth, General Brawner’s message is less about military posture and more about humanitarian clarity. The AFP’s evolving role, beyond combat and into crisis response, reflects the changing nature of 21st-century military leadership.
General Brawner’s directive should be viewed positively, as it highlights the adaptability and commitment of the Philippine government to prioritizing the welfare of its people. It suggests a broader vision of governance, placing importance on peacekeeping, disaster relief, and humanitarian efforts, while promoting resilience and compassion over military aggression.
This forward-thinking, whole-of-nation approach signals that we are on the right path, aligning our defense strategies with the core principles of good governance and a people-first model to national security.
Any responsible government would take similar steps to prepare for any eventuality, as no one seeks conflict. As a nation deeply intertwined with the region’s political and economic landscape, we must be primed not to wage war, but to save lives. In the end, there are no true victories in war, only the lasting consequences that we must strive to avoid.
In this volatile region, prudence is not paranoia. Planning is not warmongering. It is, in fact, leadership.
