AFP Modernization Timeline

In the 70's, the Philippines has the most modern Armed Forces in Asia, dubbed the Golden Years. And like neglected swords, it rusts in time. The decay was felt when in 2005, the last of the fighter jets of Philippine Air Force was decommissioned and every military hardware the Philippines followed suit. Adding insult to the injury, we felt the need to clean and sharpen that old rusty sword again when we were unable to defend some parts of our waters from Chinese aggressive stance on its territorial claims. Better late than never as they say, the wake up call came when the 1995 modernization law expired in 2010 without having a fruitful outcome, and so it was extended into another 15 year revised program.

February 23, 1995 - Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Act (Republic Act 7898) was signed into law by then President Fidel V. Ramos ushering the hope of a new and strong military for the country. 50 Billion pesos was the budget for the first 5 years of the 15 year program. A terrible blow to the AFP was dealt not by a strong enemy or army but by the Asian Financial Crisis which halted its funding and forgotten until 2010.

December 11, 2012 - Republic Act 10349 amended Republic Act 7898 as the new Revised AFP Modernization Act signed into law by President Benigno Aquino III. It is aimed to upgrade the defense capabilities of the Armed Forces of the country against internal and external threats.

December 14, 2011 - Under Foreign Assistance Act, the BRP Gregorio Del Pilar was acquired by the Philippine Government where costs of its transfer and refurbishment amounted to P450 Million pesos through the funds of Department of Energy.

November 22, 2013 -  Just like its sister ship, BRP Gregoriod Del Pilar, it was acquired through Foreign Assistance Act with transfer and refurbishment amounted to P450 Million pesos with additional P300 Million for armaments.

February 21, 2014 - Department of National Defense Bids and Awards Committee approved Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for Fighter Jets.

March 28, 2014 - South Korea has signed a $240 Million contract to deliver 12 FA-50 Fighter Jets built by Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) to the Philippines through a government to government deal. Initial delivery of 2 planes will be on 2015 and all will be accounted for in the country in the year 2017.

This will be updated frequently. Check it out if you have time!