Manila – In a budget hearing before the lower house of Congress, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro outlined a plan to broaden the nation’s unmanned aerial capabilities and add new guided‑missile corvettes to its navy. The proposal comes as the country pivots its security focus from internal challenges to external threats, particularly rising tensions with China in the South China Sea.
Budget request and modernization goals
Teodoro asked lawmakers to approve a 6.3% increase in the defense ministry’s 2027 budget, raising the allocation to roughly 325 billion pesos (about $5.3 billion). Within that request, a dedicated 50 billion‑peso (approximately $810 million) line item is earmarked for the modernization program, a 25% rise over the current year’s spending.
The centerpiece of the plan is an expanded fleet of drones. The armed forces already operate a modest number of unmanned aerial vehicles for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. Teodoro said the next phase will focus on “integration into the operation” – developing the systems, connectivity, and secure communications needed to employ drones effectively.
Naval enhancements and broader defense posture
In addition to aerial assets, the Philippines intends to acquire more guided‑missile corvettes and other major defense platforms. These additions are meant to strengthen the country’s external defense capabilities as confrontations with Beijing over disputed features in Manila’s exclusive economic zone have become more frequent.
Teodoro declined to name specific drone models or naval vessels, citing classification and sensitivity, especially concerning artificial‑intelligence components. He emphasized that the technology is “very, very sensitive to compromise.” The Philippines is reportedly in close contact with several nations that possess advanced drone expertise.
International cooperation
Ukraine’s ambassador to the Philippines, Yuliia Fediv, disclosed in June that Kyiv and Manila have been discussing cooperation on drone technology. Earlier that month, the United States announced it had delivered four solar‑powered sea drones to the Philippine military to enhance maritime surveillance.
These developments signal a broader strategic alignment with the United States and other allies, underscoring Manila’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces while navigating a complex regional security environment.
Implications for the region
Analysts note that the Philippines’ shift toward external defense reflects a growing concern over China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea. By expanding its drone fleet and naval capabilities, Manila aims to improve situational awareness, deter potential aggression, and protect its maritime interests.
The proposed budget increase and modernization plan will be debated in the coming weeks, with lawmakers weighing the costs against the perceived security benefits. If approved, the Philippines will move closer to a more technologically advanced and resilient defense posture.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
