Is the Philippines ready to defend itself without relying on the United States or other allies? In this deep dive, OHA News Asia takes a closer look at the state of the Philippine Military Defense in 2024. We explore the nation’s military history, its reliance on external allies, and the current gaps in defense spending and military capabilities. Can the Philippines develop a self-sufficient defense system that can stand on its own in the face of rising tensions in the South China Sea and potential global conflicts?

From the country’s pre-colonial defense systems to its modern-day Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), we analyze how the nation’s military has evolved over centuries. The Philippines has long relied on defense treaties, such as the Mutual Defense Treaty with the U.S., but as geopolitical tensions grow, the need for a more independent military strategy becomes increasingly urgent.

We'll also discuss United Nations and NATO standards, which recommend that countries spend at least 2% of their GDP on defense. With the Philippines projected to spend less than half of that amount in 2024, the country faces a significant shortfall. As regional neighbors like Vietnam and Indonesia ramp up military modernization, we examine the Philippines' acquisitions like the Jose Rizal-class frigates and BrahMos cruise missiles, and why these may not be enough to secure its maritime borders, especially in disputed territories like the West Philippine Sea.

This video answers crucial questions about the Philippines' ability to defend itself without relying on allies, the steps needed to modernize its military, and what the future holds for its national defense strategy. Will the Philippines be able to ramp up its defense efforts before it’s too late? Join us as we analyze the path forward and what needs to be done to secure the nation’s sovereignty in the years ahead.

Disclaimer:
This video is for educational purposes only. It is not professional military advice, and the commentary provided is based on news and publicly available information. The content is not intended to influence military decisions or strategies in any way.

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