Northern Luzon military focuses on external security for national sovereignty

CAMP MELCHOR DELA CRUZ, Gamu, Isabela — The military in Northern Luzon is shifting its focus to external security operations to defend against outside threats, according to military officials.

Northern Luzon Command Focuses on External Security

Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) Commander Lt. Gen. Aristotle Gonzalez said the shift will prioritize defending the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national resilience. Gonzalez supervised soldiers during the Combined Arms Planning Exercise 2026 (Capex 2026) on Feb. 13, an exercise jointly implemented by two Army divisions in Isabela and Nueva Ecija.

“We will identify what will be needed [as to] capability of each component in the Armed Forces,” Gonzalez said. He added that the exercises will focus on utilizing available facilities.

Gonzalez emphasized the importance of using existing facilities to fulfill the Armed Forces’ duties to uphold the country’s sovereignty and patrimony. He stated that the armed forces – including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard – are practicing “how plans are made, refined and executed.”

Capex 2026 is designed to ensure military units can respond quickly and responsibly when the nation’s security is at stake. Gonzalez urged citizens to contribute to external defense, citing issues including the West Philippine Sea and recent skirmishes with Chinese officials.

“National security is not a sole military mandate. It is our mandate, so a whole-of-nation effort is needed,” he added.

The Army divisions participated in strategic planning through map exercises and command post simulations to strengthen coordination, decision-making, and operational synchronization without deploying troops.

“This Capex exercise includes real-world operations ensuring that Army units remain ready, responsive and prepared to address external security challenges,” said Maj. Gen. Gulliver Senires, commander of the 5th Infantry Division. He added that trainings like Capex will ensure Army units are prepared to protect the country from external threats.

Capex 2026 focused on planning, not field maneuvers, utilizing map exercises and command post simulations. Commanders and staff from both divisions analyzed realistic threat scenarios, made decisions, and developed synchronized operational plans, strengthening teamwork and shared understanding.