Philippine Air Force Squadron Officers Deep Dive into Leadership, Innovation, and Security at AIM
MAKATI CITY, Philippines — In line with its commitment to developing transformative leaders across sectors, the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) recently hosted a vital engagement with the Philippine Air Force (PAF) Squadron Officer Course (SOC) Class 2025-A, marking their Informational Program Visit (IPV) on 19 June 2025, at the AIM campus.
This IPV is a key leadership development initiative under the Air Education and Training Command (AETC), designed to sharpen the strategic thinking and decision-making skills of mid-level PAF officers. The visit was led by Major Uriel F. Pangket, Course Director, supported by Major Hilarie Aquino, Deputy Course Director, and Captain Grace Capinpin.
A Cross-Sectoral Learning Experience with AIM
The program was a joint initiative of the AIM Stephen Zuellig School of Development Management (SZSDM), Aboitiz School of Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (ASITE) and the Washington SyCip Graduate School of Business (WSGSB). The visit reflected the Institute’s core value of interdisciplinary learning, offering the officers an exposure to global best practices in leadership, innovation, sustainability, and crisis management.
Masterclass on Cognitive Warfare in the South China Sea
A highlight of the engagement was a masterclass delivered by Prof. Chad Michael Briggs, PhD, Academic Program Director of the Executive Master in Disaster Risk and Crisis Management at AIM. A globally recognized expert in hybrid warfare, climate risk, and disaster intelligence, Prof. Briggs has advised the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and the Air War College. He has long advocated integrating climate risk assessment into national security and development strategies, both through policy and academic research.
Drawing from his recent paper, “Chinese Cognitive Warfare in the South China Sea: A Strategic Assessment,” Prof. Briggs provided an exploration of how China leverages non-kinetic tactics—including artificial intelligence, social media manipulation, and psychological operations—to influence narratives and undermine the cohesion of Southeast Asian states, particularly the Philippines.
He emphasized that cognitive warfare is now becoming a vital domain in modern conflict, with China aiming to “win without fighting” by embedding these influence operations in both civilian and military sectors. The masterclass also drew timely parallels with Russian strategies in Ukraine and stressed the urgency of countering these tactics through heightened strategic awareness and robust regional collaboration.
Exploring Graduate Programs in Defense and Leadership
Beyond the masterclass, participants received comprehensive briefings on graduate programs at the Institute. These offerings, focused on national security, public leadership, crisis management, and institutional resilience, provide relevant pathways for military professionals looking to expand their capabilities in an increasingly complex global security landscape.
Looking to prepare your organization for complexity and crisis? AIM’s graduate programs in development and disaster risk management are designed for high-impact professionals committed to leading change. Inquire now to know more.
