National Security Concerns

National security (NSC)

“a state or condition where our most cherished values and beliefs, our democratic way of life, our institutions of governance and our unity, welfare, and well-being as a nation and people are permanently protected and continuously enhanced. “

National Security (NICA)

“the state or condition wherein the people’s way of life and being are protected and/or advanced.” It is the primary concern of the state to ensure the welfare and well-being of every Filipino. “

Commonwealth Act No. 1

• known as the “National Defense Act”

• is the original basis of the national security program of the Republic of the Philippines

President

commander-in-chief of the armed forces. Heads the National Security council

National Security Council (NSC) director

• to advise the President on national security matters and for a National Security Council Secretariat

• Function is to advise the President with respect relating to national security

Territorial disputes

The Philippines has a dispute with China over parts of the South China Sea. China has built structures on islands that the Philippines claims, which creates tensions and affects fishing and oil resources.

Terrorism

Terrorist groups like Abu and other Islamic militants operate in the southern Philippines, especially in Mindanao. They carry out bombings, kidnappings, and attacks that threaten peace in the region.

Communist Insurgency

 New People’s Army (NPA): This group fights the government in rural areas. They engage in guerrilla warfare and attacks, making certain parts of the country unstable.

Cybersecurity Threats

Cyber Attacks: Hackers can target government offices, businesses, and critical services, leading to disruptions.

Fake News: The spread of false information, especially online, can create confusion and division, particularly during elections.

Transnational Crimes

Drug Trafficking: Illegal drugs, like meth (shabu), are a major problem. Despite government crackdowns, the drug trade continues and fuels violence and crime.

Human Trafficking: The illegal trade of people, for labor or sex, is another ongoing issue, often involving poor and vulnerable populations.

Natural Disasters and Climate Change

Typhoons and Earthquakes: The Philippines frequently experience strong typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, which can cause huge damage and displace people.
Climate Change: Rising sea levels and stronger storms make coastal areas more vulnerable, affecting people's homes and livelihoods.

Corruption and Poverty

Corruption: Dishonest practices by government officials weaken the country’s ability to address security issues properly.
Poverty: High levels of poverty can lead to social unrest and make people more vulnerable to recruitment by insurgent or terrorist groups.

Foreign Military Tensions

 Global Powers: The Philippines is caught in regional tensions, especially between the U.S. and China

Health Crises

  Pandemics: Health crises like COVID-19 showed that the country’s health system needs to be stronger.

1. The main internal threat arises from the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF)

2. The Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army National

3. Grave incidence of poverty

4. Economic sabotage

5. Graft and corruption

6. Severe calamities

7. Persistent environment degradation

8. Natural disasters and environmental issues

9.  Cybernetic crime

Internal Threats

Rebellion or insurrection

open, armed and organized resistance against a constituted authority. It includes a range of behaviors from civil disobedience and mass-violent resistance to violence.

Terrorism

 is the systematic use of terror especially as a means of coercion. It refers only to those violent acts that are intended to create fear perpetrated for an ideological goal, and deliberately target specific people or disregard the safety of non-combatants civilians.

Crime

applies to a measurable degree of damage or destruction up to and including a state beyond use or repair, or it may indicate a state wherein such damage is occurring and continuing.