About this Unit
The **ISC AFIS** (Information Support Command – Armed Forces Information Service) is a specialized military unit dedicated to information operations and strategic communication within the armed forces. Established in the early 2000s, ISC AFIS was formed to centralize and enhance the dissemination of accurate information to both military personnel and the public, supporting operational security and morale. The unit played a pivotal role during overseas deployments, providing media support, psychological operations, and countering misinformation. Over the years, ISC AFIS has evolved to incorporate advanced digital tools, ensuring timely and effective communication in the modern information environment.
Historical Facts
• Meaning of ISC AFIS: ISC AFIS stands for Internal Security Command Armed Forces Intelligence Service, a military intelligence entity within the Philippine military structure during the martial law era.
• Martial Law Role: ISC AFIS played a crucial role during the martial law period in the Philippines (1972-1981), serving as the intelligence arm for monitoring and suppressing dissent.
• Counterinsurgency Operations: The unit was instrumental in counterinsurgency operations against communist insurgents and separatist groups, gathering information and conducting covert missions.
• Direct Presidential Reporting: ISC AFIS reported directly to the highest levels of government, including the Office of the President, ensuring its intelligence was used for policy and military decisions.
• Surveillance Capabilities: The unit was known for its advanced surveillance techniques for the time, including wiretapping, infiltration, and monitoring of suspected subversives.
• Notable Operations: ISC AFIS was reportedly involved in high-profile arrests and neutralization operations targeting opposition leaders and activists during the martial law era.
• Controversial Reputation: The unit became associated with allegations of human rights abuses, including arbitrary detention, torture, and enforced disappearances.
• Intelligence Training: ISC AFIS personnel were trained in both domestic and foreign intelligence methods, with some members receiving training from allied countries.
• Organizational Changes: After martial law, the unit underwent several reorganizations and name changes as the Philippine government restructured its intelligence apparatus.
• Historical Legacy: ISC AFIS is often studied in Philippine military history as an example of intelligence operations during authoritarian rule and its long-term impact on civil-military relations.
