AFP Reaffirms Commitment to the Code of Conduct
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) marked a significant moment in its 35-year history of upholding ethical service as it renewed allegiance to its Code of Conduct on Monday, October 6. The ceremony, held at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, underscored the military’s ongoing commitment to the moral foundations of service even as corruption issues gnaw at various sectors of government. AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. led the oath-taking, urging all soldiers and civilian personnel to stay faithful to the constitutional mandate to protect the people and secure the state.
Leadership Emphasis: Integrity as the True Foundation
“Strength without integrity is hollow. This is where the AFP Code of Conduct stands as our foundation,” Brawner stated, framing the day as much more than a ritual but a pledge to endure ethical discipline. He reminded attendees that for 35 years the Code has served as the military’s moral compass, demanding the highest standards of honor, service, and patriotism. In an era when public trust in institutions is under strain, he stressed that the Code remains essential for sustaining faith in the armed forces.
Facing Contemporary Challenges with Moral Clarity
Brawner acknowledged that corruption and abuses of power have damaged confidence in some government areas. In response, he pressed AFP units to renew their commitment to integrity, stressing that discipline and good conduct are critical components of public accountability. “At a time when the lines of morality are blurred and public scrutiny is sharp, the code guides us to remain disciplined, principled, and worthy of the trust of our people that our people place in us,” he said.
The oath-taking ceremony occurred concurrently across all major AFP services. Troops reaffirmed their pledge to the Code of Conduct, reinforcing a unified stance that ethical behavior is non-negotiable for both uniformed and civilian personnel who serve under the AFP’s banner.
Code of Conduct: Core Values in Action
The Code of Conduct, institutionalized 35 years ago, defines the AFP’s core values—honor, valor, duty, loyalty, and love of country. It provides a framework for ethical behavior, accountability, and a standard of conduct expected from every member of the force. By re-emphasizing these principles, the AFP signals its intent to operate with transparency and responsibility, even as external pressures demand stronger oversight and reform across government.
Administrative Renewal and the Path Forward
In addition to the oath, Brawner directed unit leaders to reintroduce both the AFP Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics among all personnel. The aim is clear: ensure every member understands the expectations of moral behavior in service and the consequences of deviations. This reintroduction is designed not merely as a reminder but as an actionable framework for daily decisions, from procurement and logistics to field operations and civilian-military cooperation.
New Branding, Shared Purpose
Beyond the oath, Brawner led the launch of a new AFP logo with the theme “Matatag na Sandatahang Lakas, Sandigan ng Bagong Pilipinas”—a nod to the coming 90th founding anniversary in December. He described the logo as a narrative of nine decades of service: the soldiers who fought in battles, sailors and marines who defend maritime interests, and airmen who carry the nation’s hopes into the skies. While some acts of service may not be cataloged in official histories, their impact is evident in the peace and security of communities across the country.
The Road Ahead: Building Trust Through Actions
As the AFP commemorates its Code of Conduct, the organization remains focused on translating symbolic gestures into real-world reforms. Faithful adherence to the Code is seen as a path to restoring and sustaining public confidence, particularly at a time when anti-corruption scrutiny is high. The AFP’s renewed vow to ethical service is a message to the public that the armed forces will uphold constitutional duties, protect the people, and act with integrity even when confronted with difficult choices.
Conclusion
The 35th anniversary of the AFP Code of Conduct reinforces a timeless commitment: strength must be paired with integrity. As the AFP moves toward its 90th year, its leadership insists that character and service remain the strongest guarantors of trust, ensuring that every member of the force wears the badge of duty to God, country, and people with honor.
