US Influence on Military Professionalism in the Philippines

摘要

The 'special relationship' between the US and the Philippines date back to the beginning of the 2Oth Century. During this period, the US played a significant role in the development of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) . This thesis assesses the scope of US influence in shaping military professionalism in the Philippines. Military professionalism is essential in keeping positive civil-military relations and sustaining democracy. This thesis analyzes areas wherein the US has potentially influenced military professionalism, namely the Philippine Military Academy, US service academies, International Military Education and Training Program, and US-Philippines Mil- to-Mil exercises. This study also discusses the degree of US influence as the AFP deals with the Post-Cold War era, the impact of the postmodern military, the Revolution in Military Affairs, and the global war on terrorism. Finally, this thesis presents a case study of the July 2003 failed mutiny. The study proposes that professionalism, or the lack thereof, is not an independent variable that determines whether or not the military will intervene in political affairs Instead, it is a combination of strong institutions, solid oversight mechanisms, and highly professional armed forces that will preclude military adventurism and keep soldiers in the barracks.