Philippine-Military-History (1)

Introduction

The document focuses on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), its history, core values, and the evolution of the Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC).

Battle of Mactan (April 27, 1521):
- Resistance led by Lapu-lapu against Spanish conquerors, particularly Fernando Magellan.
- Indigenous capability underestimated by foreigners, leading to Magellan's death and a successful defense.

Resistance Movements:
- Rajah Soliman resisted Spanish colonizers during their landing in Manila (1570).
- 1571: Legaspi conquered Manila, establishing it as the capital.
- Diego Silang: Led notable rebellion against Spanish control.
- Filipino soldiers often fought alongside Spanish troops during conflicts, such as the Chinese Revolt (1603).

General Jose Prim's overthrow of Queen Isabela II (1868) led to Filipino exposure to liberal ideas and nationalism.
Influences from propagandists: Marcelo H. del Pilar, Graciano Lopez Jaena, and Jose Rizal.
Andres Bonifacio: Founded the Katipunan in 1892, a key revolutionary movement against Spain.
- Cry of Pugad Lawin (August 23, 1896): Marked the start of the Philippine Revolution.
- Conflict between factions: Magdalo and Magdiwang, resolved in the Tejeros Convention (March 22, 1897) where Aguinaldo gained presidency, formalizing the Philippine Army.

Spanish-American War (1898): Filipinos allied with Americans against Spain, leading to the declaration of Philippine independence on June 12, 1898.
The Philippine Navy was formed on June 22, 1898.
American occupation was met with resistance due to harsh treatment and restrictions imposed on Filipino forces, culminating in the fall of the Malolos Republic.

Post-war Treaty of Paris (1898): Spain ceded the Philippines to the U.S.
Efforts to suppress Filipino uprising included the establishment of the Philippine Constabulary (August 8, 1901) and the Philippine Military Academy (February 7, 1905).
Philippine Air Force formed on July 1, 1947.

Japanese Invasion: On December 10, 1941, the combined U.S.-Filipino forces withdrew to Bataan due to overwhelming Japanese attacks.
Fall of Bataan (April 9, 1942) and Corregidor (May 6, 1942) ended organized resistance.
Guerrilla forces played a vital role during the occupation and aided U.S. forces in the liberation of the Philippines in 1944.

The AFP's commitment to the United Nations is demonstrated by participation in various international peacekeeping missions during the 1950s to 60s, including:
- PEFTOK in Korea.
- Air Force contingent in the Congo.
- Civic Action Group in Vietnam.
- Missions in East Timor, Iraq, and Liberia.

Commonwealth Act No. 1 (National Defense Act): Established the legal foundation for ROTC in the Philippines.
Early military training dates back to Spanish rule, but a formal program was implemented later.

British Forces: Arrived in 1762 amidst European conflicts, leading to temporary British control over Manila until June 1764.
Military training initiated by Father Domingo Collantes for student defenders.

Despite fewer resources, student-led forces managed a notable resistance during British invasion, displaying courage and valor.

Spanish King recognized the bravery of student defenders, influencing the development of military training programs in Philippine universities.
Formal ROTC instruction began with the Philippine Constabulary initiative in 1912.

Mandatory military training introduced for university students, realizing the need for a reserve military.
US-initiated ROTC programs established in major universities.

Establishment of the Department of Military Science and Tactics in UP on March 17, 1922, aiming to foster disciplined citizens.
Formation of basic infantry training as a graduation requirement from UP.

Under General McArthur, the Philippines developed a national defense policy combining regular and reserve forces.

National Assembly approved ROTC units in various colleges for military instruction, leading to official recognition of ROTC programs.

Required students to undergo military training for reserve commissions, aiming for a more disciplined citizenry.
Growing discomfort with mandatory training led to nationwide debates.

The ROTC program has faced scrutiny due to several incidents and criticisms, culminating in Republic Act 9163 (2001), allowing students to choose from NSTP components.

Components of NSTP: ROTC, Literacy Training Service (LTS), and Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS) where students choose based on preference.

Recognition of declining appreciation for ROTC leading to advocacy for its endorsement in state colleges, highlighting national defense commitment.

Document ends with a formal acknowledgement of the core values and mission of the AFP.