Department of National Defense - Philippines

The Department of National Defense (DND) (Pilipino: Kagawaran ng Tanggulang Pambansa) was formally organized on November 1, 1939 pursuant to Executive Order No. 230, to implement the National Defense Act (Commonwealth Act No. 1) passed by the National Assembly on December 31, 1935 and Commonwealth Act No. 340 creating the Department.

DND is tasked with guarding against internal and external threats to national security, promoting the welfare of soldiers and veterans, and providing support to socio-economic development.

DND exercises supervision over the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP), and the Government Arsenal (GA).

It is mandated to supervise the National Defense Program of the Philippines, responsible for overseeing field operations to ensure the judicious and effective implementation of the National Defense and Security Programs.