Code of Ethics for the AFP

Preamble

• The document is a Code of Ethics for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
• The AFP commits to upholding the Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines and serving the people.
• The document emphasizes serving the people, protecting the sovereignty of the state, and ensuring the integrity of the national territory.
• The AFP acknowledges the principle of civilian supremacy over the military.

Article I - Identity

• The AFP is established by the Constitution of the Philippines.
• Serves to protect the people, secure the sovereignty of the state, and maintain the integrity of the national territory from internal and external threats.
• Recognizes and upholds the principle of civilian supremacy.
• Consists of three major branches: Philippine Air Force, Philippine Army, and Philippine Navy.

Article II - AFP History

• Establishes the AFP's past experiences as vital lessons.
• Outlines past successes and failures, showcasing the AFP's evolution and growth.

Article III - AFP Creed and Stand on Basic Issues

• Defines the AFP's core values and common beliefs.
• Encapsulates the AFP's fighting cause, mission, and ideology.

Article IV - AFP Membership

• Aims to establish a fair and inclusive system for recruiting and maintaining personnel.
• Emphasizes the importance of non-discriminatory recruitment practices.
• Encourages proportionate regional representation within the AFP.
• Outlines qualifications for commissioned officers and enlisted personnel.
• Covers topics like education, training, retention, promotion, retirement benefits, and death and disability benefits for members of the AFP.

Article V - Military Professionalism

• Defines military professionalism as the expert application of specialized skills based on a body of knowledge.
• Highlighted standards of Military Professionalism:
  • Loyalty to the Filipino people, the Constitution, and the AFP.
  • Competence: Possessing necessary knowledge, skills, and physical attributes for duty performance.
  • Ethics: Conforming to ethical principles of conduct and behavior in line with Filipino societal standards.
  • Morals: Recognizing the fundamental human rights of all people.

Article VI - AFP Customs and Traditions

• Differentiates between customs and traditions:
  • Traditions are inherited principles and practices passed down through generations.
  • Customs are accepted practices that gain legal force through continuous usage.
• Outlines various customs:
  • Saluting, flag raising and retreat ceremonies
  • Three volleys over graves, white flag of truce, and the wearing of decorations
  • Raising of the right hand during oaths, courtesy of the post
  • Presentation of recruits to colors, welcoming and farewell ceremonies for assigned/departing officers
  • Retirement ceremonies, pipe calls, and courtesy calls
  • New Year's calls, Happy Hours, military weddings
  • Patronage of officers and enlisted personnel clubs, holiday dinner ceremonies
  • Christmas holiday entertainment, rank privileges, visiting the sick
  • Survivor assistance, "I Wish" and "I Desire" Statements, place of honor, and the use of the word "Sir"

Article VII - AFP Code of Ethics

• Requires all members of the AFP to uphold and follow the AFP CODE OF ETHICS at all times.
• Commanders must set a good example for others.
• The Vice Commander/Deputy is the head of the Office of Ethical Standards and Public Accountability (OESPA).
• The Chaplain serves as the moral and spiritual advisor for the AFP

Summary of the document

• The document presents a comprehensive code of ethics for the AFP, laying out their principles, values, customs, and traditions.
• It outlines the AFP's identity, history, core principles, membership requirements, standards of professionalism, and ethical conduct.
• The document reaffirms the AFP's commitment to serving the people and upholding the values of the Filipino people.

Explore the foundational principles and identity of the Armed Forces of the Philippines through this quiz. It covers the AFP's commitment to the Constitution, history, and the principle of civilian supremacy. Test your knowledge on the values that guide the military service.