In Manila and across the country, the Armed Forces of the Philippines proudly celebrated its 77th anniversary on December 21st. Though rarely featured in international media, the 120,000 soldiers protecting the land, sky and sea of the Philippines have nearly eight decades of tradition behind them, and have taken a day to honor it.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is celebrating its 77th Anniversary on December 21, 2012. The AFP has an active strength of 120,000 with over 130,000 personnel in the reserve service. It is divided into three main services: the Philippine Army (PA), the Philippine Air Force (PAF), and the Philippine Navy (PN) composed of the Philippine Fleet and the Philippine Marine Corps.

The AFP plays a key role in nation-building. The men and women of AFP serve, defend, and safeguard the country and people. Soldiers, airmen, navymen and marines perform a wide spectrum of tasks, such as building roads, bridges, and classrooms; and peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.

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