Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Army (PA) is planning to integrate drone technology into its force structure, as well as prioritizing training and human capital development to ensure use of modern equipment.
Philippine Army Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarette said this Thursday (September 11, 2025) that strengthening the capabilities of soldiers through these programs is central to the Army’s shift towards external defense operations.
For the time being, drones in the PA are being utilized for intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
However, efforts are underway to expand their role in external defense, particularly in supporting operations within the country’s territory and its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
On the other hand, PA also stressed that improving human capital will support Army’s coordination with the Navy and Air Force in strengthening the Philippine’s overall force projection capabilities.
Nafarrete reaffirmed the Army’s support for the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense (CADO) which focuses on defending the nation’s islands and maritime.
As part of this initiative, the Army has been conducting large-scale training exercises such as the annual Combined Arms Training Exercise “Katihan.”—Chandra Salayog, Eurotv News