General Antonio G.Nafarrete, newly appointed Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), emphasized during his assumption ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo that strengthening territorial defense is the military's top priority under his leadership.

He highlighted the need to operationalize the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept and ensure credible capabilities to protect the country's sovereignty.

Nafarrete also pledged to expand defense partnerships through unilateral, bilateral, and multilateral exercises while accelerating modernization efforts beyond equipment acquisition.This includes developing integrated capabilities with trained personnel, clear doctrines, and resilient logistics.He stressed that human capital development remains central to modernization, noting that true strength lies in the dedication of AFP personnel.

The new chief also committed to preserving internal security gains and supporting peace agreements, building on reforms from his predecessor General Romeo S.Brawner Jr.