AFP’s first woman spox aims to promote patriotism, cybersecurity in new post

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 23) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines' (AFP) first female spokesperson wants to awaken patriotism and educate Filipinos about cybersecurity.

“Ang vision ko is (My vision is) to make the most significant difference that I can do for our country,” recently designated AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla told CNN Philippines’ The Source.

“We want to ignite that patriotism sa ating mga kababayan (among our countrymen). It’s also very good for me to have been given this designation, at least I can now have a voice," she added.

Padilla said she also wants to use her years of experience in the field of technology and security to educate Filipinos on how to protect themselves in the cyber domain.

Padilla was named AFP spokesperson on Jan. 15, replacing Col. Medel Aguilar. 

Among her many recognitions was being the Cybersecurity Woman Leader for the year 2023.

Padilla is a single mother of two, one of whom is currently in the Philippine Military Academy and the other a data scientist.