Chapter 37: Modernization 3

To effectively navigate the terrain of persuasion, Alfonso ingeniously proposed a solution that couldn't be easily refused. He extended an offer to acquire their companies, valuing them at their then-current market price, with an additional 50 percent of that value. It was a proposition built on economic fairness and enticing benefits – a proposition that he was poised to elaborate upon.

The financial strain experienced by these companies, particularly their CEOs, became a strategic leverage for Alfonso. With a wealth of resources at his disposal, he knew he could play the "I'm rich" card, skillfully coaxing them to the negotiation table. The prospect of a significant injection of funds had its undeniable allure, especially when the alternative might be an uncertain financial future.

During this crucial intermission, the army contractor temporarily exited the room to confer with his colleagues about Alfonso's proposal. Meanwhile, Alfonso seized the opportunity to engage in a dynamic discourse with the Army General present. He walked the General through the envisioned integration of the newly proposed technology into military combat strategies.

For those unacquainted with the concept of mechanized infantry, Alfonso succinctly broke it down to its essence – infantry personnel operating within armored, tracked, or wheeled vehicles on the battlefield. This integrated approach allowed infantry to seamlessly transition from vehicle-based mobility to ground-based engagement, all while operating in tandem with tanks and other armored assets.

With the same clarity, Alfonso elucidated the primary objective of mechanized infantry – to systematically neutralize enemy capabilities while simultaneously supplying a rapid and overwhelming volume of fire. This doctrine was reminiscent of the Blitzkrieg approach, famously executed by German forces during World War II. The swift and coordinated utilization of mechanized forces in Blitzkrieg allowed for shockingly swift advances, leaving adversaries reeling and unable to mount an effective response.

Back to the story

Alfonso, brimming with innovative ideas, decided to broach yet another subject during the ongoing meeting. With a thoughtful tone, he turned to General Ramirez, the head of the Army, and shared his perspective, "General, I can't help but notice that the uniforms of our Army seem quite outdated. I believe it's time for a change."

General Ramirez's curiosity was piqued as he arched an intrigued brow, responding, "Do you have a specific concept in mind, Your Majesty?"

Alfonso, ever ready to unveil his vision, reached for his trusty briefcase, retrieving a carefully folded paper from within. "Please forgive my humble sketch," he remarked with a modest smile, extending the paper toward Ramirez for examination.

Ramirez's eyes scanned the drawing, and a small gasp escaped his lips. He turned to Alfonso with a blend of astonishment and admiration, "Your Majesty, you underestimate yourself. This uniform design is splendid, capturing my attention the instant I laid eyes on it."

A pleased smile curved Alfonso's lips as he acknowledged Ramirez's words, "I appreciate your kind words. Lately, I've been pondering the notion that our army deserves a fresh aesthetic. The existing attire appears somewhat antiquated, wouldn't you agree?"

Ramirez nodded in agreement, his expression thoughtful, "You are correct, Your Majesty. The army's uniform has remained largely unchanged for decades."

The design that Alfonso had presented to Ramirez reflected a concept somewhat akin to the current military uniforms of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). the AFP's uniform design balanced both functional necessities and traditional elements. Here is an overview of the design elements that were present at that time:

Service Uniform (Class A):

- The Class A service uniform encompassed a khaki long-sleeved button-down shirt featuring rank-indicating shoulder loops.

- This shirt was worn tucked into olive green trousers fastened with a belt.

- The ensemble was completed with black leather shoes and black socks.

- A garrison cap sporting a black visor added the finishing touch.

- Ribbons and badges could be incorporated based on awards and qualifications.

Battle Dress Uniform (BDU):

- Designed for field and operational duties, the BDU showcased an appropriate camouflage pattern for the given environment.

- The uniform included a blouse with patch pockets and shoulder-based rank insignia.

- Trousers equipped with cargo pockets were typically worn bloused into boots.

- Rugged terrain-friendly boots accompanied the BDU.

Physical Training (PT) Uniform:

- The PT uniform consisted of a t-shirt adorned with the AFP logo or insignia.

- Activity-suited shorts paired with the t-shirt for physical training purposes.

- Running shoes or appropriate athletic footwear were the footwear of choice for PT sessions.

Special Uniforms:

- Specialized units within the Philippine Army often sported unique uniforms. These distinctive attires frequently integrated elements specific to their respective roles.

As discussions continued, Alfonso's newly proposed uniform concept elicited thoughtful nods from the gathering. With each decision, each exchange of ideas, the tapestry of a revitalized and technologically advanced armed forces grew richer and more vibrant.

To pave the way for the creation of a modern army, Alfonso recognized that he must commence with the essentials: the people who would serve the nation. With a clear sense of purpose, he set out to initiate a transformative journey.

"With the military uniform topic addressed, let's proceed to the next item on our agenda," Alfonso remarked, retrieving a file from his assortment of documents and extending it to General Ramirez.

Curious, General Ramirez accepted the folder, his eyes scanning the contents as he inquired, "What does this pertain to?" He began reading the initial pages of the report.

Alfonso's objective was clear: he aspired to cultivate a literate army. In the 1920s and 1930s, historical records indicate that the Philippines grappled with a notably low literacy rate. During that era, merely 20% to 25% of the population aged 10 and above possessed the ability to read and write. This sobering statistic underscored the limited accessibility to education, particularly in rural regions, compounded by economic adversities and the absence of a comprehensive educational framework.

"I'm determined to establish a literate army, irrespective of whether this necessitates a return to educational institutions for learning the fundamentals of reading and writing. It's an imperative undertaking," Alfonso conveyed with conviction.

"Your vision resonates with me, Your Majesty," General Ramirez concurred, affirming the importance of this endeavor.

The transformation of education stood as a cornerstone of Alfonso's agenda. In pursuit of this, he had already championed the cause of free education for all citizens, an initiative he further fortified by enshrining it as a constitutional right.

Alfonso's forward-looking approach also extended to altering the qualifications required for entry into the army. Evidencing this shift, he introduced a comprehensive course that he had personally formulated. "I've drafted a comprehensive training curriculum aimed at redefining army qualification criteria," Alfonso revealed. "On page 30, you'll find the details of the 20-week program that aspiring recruits must successfully navigate to earn a place in the army."