Philippine strategic culture: continuity in the face of changing regional dynamics

Philippine strategic culture has traditionally been characterized by its emphasis on internal security through asymmetrical warfare in confronting military challenges and a reliance on alliance in addressing the country's strategic inadequacies. Philippine strategic culture is rooted in the country's archipelagic geography and isolation from continental Asia, its colonial history, and liberal-democratic political system. It is a culture long shaped by the strategic decisions of a small group of elites - about 400 families that have dominated local politics, economy and society since the Philippines become independent in 1946. Their preferences have been reflected in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) seven-decade campaign against insurgent groups, lack of conventional capabilities, low defence budget and dependence on the United States for military assistance and security guarantees.

PINES