Foreign independent policy institute Lowy Institute ranked the Philippines’ military capability as one of the weakest among Asia Pacific countries.
According to the report, the Philippines ranked 19th out of 25 countries in the Asia Pacific region in terms of military capability.
“Its [Philippines’] lowest ranking occurs in the military capability measure, in 19th place with a score of 4.1,” the report read.
The low score in the military capability sector was attributed to the Philippine Navy’s use of only one frigate. The report also noted that the Navy does not have destroyers, cruisers or carriers.
The United States was described as the country’s largest defense partner after transferring about $261 million worth of arms to the Philippines.
The United States topped all countries in terms of military capability scoring 94.6. It was followed by China with 69.9 and Russia with 61.4.
The report, which took into account different indicators including military, economic, cultural, diplomatic and political power, ranked the Philippines at number 16 overall.
