Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. underscored the vital role of soldiers in advancing the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), the country’s new defense strategy.

In a statement, the AFP said Wednesday Brawner visited Camarines Sur-based 9th Infantry Division (9ID) and emphasized to the troops the vital new strategy that integrates internal security and territorial defense operations.

CADC aims to defend Philippine territories, including the country’s 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone.

“With the caliber of our commanders here and the drive and urgency our troops are putting into this mission, I am confident that we can finally end local communist armed conflict and shift greater focus to territorial defense operations,” Brawner told the troops.

He said the 9ID’s role is crucial in securing the upcoming elections, noting that 2025 will be a critical year for the military’s internal security efforts.

The 9ID, headquartered in Camp Elias Angeles in Pili, Camarines Sur, plays an important role in counterinsurgency operations in Southern Luzon. (PNA)