Stronger cyberwarfare capabilities needed vs new threats – Gatchalian

MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian stressed the need for sustained military modernization and stronger cyberwarfare capabilities, saying the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) should be prepared for evolving security threats.

Gatchalian, during the Senate finance subcommittee hearing on the 2027 budget of the Department of National Defense (DND) and its attached agencies on Monday, cited conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe as reminders of the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

He emphasized the need to acquire equipment that would prepare the country for emerging forms of warfare, including cyberattacks.

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“The geopolitical situation in our region and around the world is changing rapidly. We are seeing conflicts in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and other parts of the world. The point is, it is important that we remain prepared and continue to modernize and strengthen our armed forces, including in the area of cyberwarfare,” the Senate leader said.

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“I have also heard and seen a lot in the news about cyberwarfare becoming a reality in these kinds of situations. I know cyberspace is complicated, but even so, it is important that we are able to acquire equipment that will help us prepare for these kinds of conflicts and warfare,” he added.

Gatchalian also highlighted the AFP’s dual role in defending the country and responding to natural disasters, calling for stronger multi-role capabilities to ensure the military can effectively respond to major typhoons and other calamities.

He affirmed his support for additional AFP capabilities, stressing that investments in military modernization must be continuous and sustainable until the country achieves its desired defense readiness. /cb