Philippine flag patch now part of AFP battle dress uniform

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday said the Philippine flag patch is now part of the battle dress uniform of the military as a symbol of national pride.

This was announced by AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. during a press conference after a command conference on Thursday.

"Dati po hindi parte ng ating battle dress uniform yung bandila natin. We wear this only during Balikatan exercises or when we go abroad kapag lumalabas po tayo ng bansa," he said.

(Before, our flag was not part of our battle dress uniform. We wear this only during Balikatan exercises or when we go abroad when we leave the country.)

"But this time, as the chief of staff, I have authorized all members of the AFP to wear our flag on our right arm for our battle dress uniform. This is to show patriotism of the AFP and this is also to align with the goals of Bagong Pilipinas," he added.

Patriotism, solidarity

In a separate statement, the AFP said the move aims "to reinforce patriotism and solidarity as a visible reminder of AFP's commitment to upholding the Philippine sovereign rights and territorial integrity."

"This aligns with the broader efforts of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr to foster national pride and unity among Filipinos," it added.

According to the AFP, wearing the Philippine flag patch with the military’s battle dress uniform shows "vivid representation in carrying out its mission with honor and pride." — VDV, GMA Integrated News