How to Join the Philippines Military
The realistic, step-by-step process for enlistment in the Philippines armed forces — from first application to your first day of basic training.
- ▸6 main stages
- ▸~24 weeks application to training
- ▸Minimum age: 18 years
- ▸Starting pay: PHP 29,668/month
The application process at a glance
Joining the Philippines military takes approximately 24 weeks from initial application to starting basic training. The process has 6 main stages. Be patient — bureaucratic delays at any stage are normal.
Step-by-step recruitment stages
- Step 1: Online application via afp-recruitment.info or jointhearmy.ph
- Step 2: AFPSAT (Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test)
- Step 3: Physical fitness test
- Step 4: Medical and dental examination
- Step 5: Neuropsychiatric evaluation and background check
- Step 6: Report for Candidate Soldier Course / OCC / PMA
Age, citizenship, and basic qualifications
You must be at least 18 years old to enlist (and no older than 26). Philippines citizenship is required. Medical and physical fitness standards apply at the screening stage.
What happens after you sign
After contract signing, you are scheduled for basic training (approximately 16 weeks). Initial pay starts at roughly PHP 29,668/month as a Private (Candidate Soldier, post-CSC). Your specific MOS / trade / specialty determines follow-on training duration and assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to join the Philippines military?
Typically 24 weeks from application to starting basic training, though delays are common.
Do I need Philippines citizenship to join?
Yes — Philippines citizenship is required for military service.
What test do I have to pass to enlist?
Each country uses different aptitude testing — the recruiter's office or career center will administer it. See specific guidance per branch.
- afp-recruitment.info; jointhearmy.ph
- jointhearmy.ph/how-to-join/qualifications-and-requirements; pma.edu.ph
- AFP/DBM Salary Standardization Law V; digido.ph army salaries
- jointhearmy.ph qualifications