AFPSAT AFP Knowledge — Articles of WarSlides
Slide deck for AFPSAT AFP Knowledge — Articles of War. These slides are built for quick visual review, highlighting the key concepts, formulas, and question patterns from this chapter of the AFPSAT 2026 syllabus.
Exam context
Armed Forces of the Philippines runs the Armed Forces of the Philippines Service Aptitude Test on Multiple schedules yearly. Its AFP Knowledge section sits under a "Core" weighting, and Articles of War is the 1st chapter in the 3-chapter AFPSAT AFP Knowledge rotation. The AFPSAT passing mark is AFP-set percentile, and the most recent 2026 paper drew about a meaningful share of questions from AFP Knowledge.
Articles of War - Slides
The Articles of War represent the foundation of military justice in the Philippines, governing the conduct of every member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). This comprehensive legal framework ensures discipline, order, and justice within military ranks while protecting the rights of service members. Understanding these articles is crucial for AFPSAT candidates who will serve under this military justice system.
Slides
Introduction to Articles of War
The Articles of War serve as the military's legal code, addressing offenses and situations unique to military service that civilian courts cannot adequately handle. This separate legal system ensures military effectiveness and discipline.
Notes
Foundation slide establishing the importance and scope of military justice
Topic
Introduction and Overview
Slide Id
S1
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
1
Mermaid Diagram
Code
mindmap root((Articles of War)) Legal Foundation Commonwealth Act 408 Military Criminal Law Constitutional Authority Coverage AFP Members Military Cadets Active Personnel Support Staff Purpose Military Discipline Justice System Operational Effectiveness Rights Protection
Type
mermaid_mindmap
Description
Overview of Articles of War showing its legal foundation, coverage, and purpose in the military justice system
Constitutional Foundation
The Articles of War derive their authority from the Philippine Constitution, which establishes the military's role while maintaining civilian control. This constitutional basis ensures the military justice system operates within democratic principles.
Notes
Emphasizes the democratic foundation of military justice system
Topic
Constitutional Basis
Slide Id
S2
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
2
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart TD A[Philippine Constitution] --> B[Article XVI Sec 4] A --> C[Article VII Sec 18] A --> D[Article II Sec 3] B --> E[Establishes AFP] C --> F[Commander-in-Chief Powers] D --> G[Civilian Supremacy] E --> H[Articles of War Authority] F --> H G --> H
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Constitutional foundation showing how different constitutional provisions establish the authority for military justice
Why Military Justice is Separate
Military justice exists because civilian law cannot address the unique demands of military service. Military operations require instant obedience, discipline, and coordination that civilian courts cannot effectively enforce or understand.
Notes
Helps students understand the rationale for separate military justice
Topic
Rationale for Military Justice
Slide Id
S3
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
3
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart LR A[Military Situations] --> B{Civilian Law Adequate?} B -->|No| C[Military Justice System] B -->|Yes| D[Civilian Courts] A1[Combat Operations] --> A A2[Guard Duty] --> A A3[Chain of Command] --> A A4[Military Secrets] --> A C --> E[Court Martial] C --> F[Military Discipline]
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Decision tree showing when military vs civilian justice applies based on the nature of the situation
Persons Subject to Military Law
Article 2 of the Articles of War defines who falls under military jurisdiction. This broad coverage ensures military law applies to all personnel who could affect military operations, discipline, or security.
Notes
Clear identification of who is subject to military justice
Topic
Jurisdiction and Coverage
Slide Id
S4
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
4
Mermaid Diagram
Code
pie title Personnel Under Military Law "Active Duty Personnel" : 60 "Reserve Personnel" : 20 "Military Cadets" : 10 "Support Personnel" : 7 "Wartime Civilians" : 3
Type
mermaid_pie
Description
Distribution showing the different categories of personnel subject to military law
Major Offense Categories - Discipline
Offenses against discipline target behaviors that undermine the chain of command and military order. These are fundamental to maintaining the hierarchical structure essential for military effectiveness.
Notes
Focus on chain of command and respect for authority
Topic
Offenses Against Discipline
Slide Id
S5
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
5
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart TD A[Discipline Offenses] --> B[Article 64 Disrespect] A --> C[Article 65 Insubordination] A --> D[Article 66 Striking Superior] A --> E[Article 67 Mutiny] A --> F[Article 84 Quarrels] B --> G[Warning to Dismissal] C --> H[Confinement to Discharge] D --> I[Serious Punishment] E --> J[Capital Offense in War] F --> K[Disciplinary Action]
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Hierarchy of discipline offenses and their typical punishment ranges
Major Offense Categories - Duty
Duty-related offenses address failures to perform military responsibilities. These directly impact operational readiness, mission success, and the safety of fellow service members.
Notes
Emphasizes responsibility and mission commitment
Topic
Offenses Against Duty
Slide Id
S6
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
6
Mermaid Diagram
Code
stateDiagram-v2 [*] --> OnDuty OnDuty --> AWOL: Unauthorized Absence OnDuty --> Desertion: Intent to Stay Away OnDuty --> DrunkOnDuty: Alcohol Consumption OnDuty --> Misbehavior: Cowardice/Neglect AWOL --> [*]: Return to Duty AWOL --> Desertion: Extended Absence Desertion --> CourtMartial DrunkOnDuty --> CourtMartial Misbehavior --> CourtMartial CourtMartial --> [*]
Type
mermaid_stateDiagram
Description
State diagram showing how duty violations can escalate and their consequences
Key Military Offenses - Desertion vs AWOL
Understanding the difference between desertion and AWOL is crucial. While both involve unauthorized absence, the intent to return permanently distinguishes them and determines the severity of punishment.
Notes
Critical distinction for military personnel to understand
Topic
Specific Military Offenses
Slide Id
S7
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
7
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart TD A[Unauthorized Absence] --> B{Intent to Return?} B -->|Yes| C[AWOL Article 86] B -->|No| D[Desertion Article 85] C --> E[Lesser Punishment] D --> F[Severe Punishment] E --> G[Extra Duty, Loss of Pay] F --> H[Discharge, Confinement] F --> I[Death in Wartime]
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Decision tree distinguishing between AWOL and desertion based on intent and showing punishment differences
Court-Martial Types and Structure
The three-tier court-martial system ensures appropriate adjudication based on offense severity. More serious crimes receive more thorough proceedings with greater procedural protections.
Notes
Explains the graduated response system of military justice
Topic
Court-Martial System
Slide Id
S8
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
8
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart TD A[Military Offense] --> B{Severity Level?} B -->|Minor| C[Summary Court-Martial] B -->|Intermediate| D[Special Court-Martial] B -->|Serious| E[General Court-Martial] C --> F[1 Officer] D --> G[3+ Officers] E --> H[5+ Officers] F --> I[Limited Punishment] G --> J[Moderate Punishment] H --> K[Any Punishment Including Death]
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Court-martial selection process based on offense severity and corresponding composition and powers
Court-Martial Procedure
Military trials follow structured procedures similar to civilian courts but adapted for military needs. Multiple review levels ensure justice while maintaining military efficiency.
Notes
Shows the systematic approach to military justice
Topic
Legal Procedures
Slide Id
S9
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
9
Mermaid Diagram
Code
sequenceDiagram participant I as Investigation participant C as Convening Authority participant CM as Court-Martial participant R as Review Process I->>C: Submit charges C->>CM: Convene court CM->>CM: Conduct trial CM->>C: Verdict and sentence C->>R: Review recommendation R->>R: Final approval
Type
mermaid_sequence
Description
Sequence of court-martial proceedings from investigation through final review
Rights of the Accused
Military justice preserves fundamental due process rights while operating within the military system. These protections ensure fair treatment while maintaining the efficiency needed for military operations.
Notes
Emphasizes fair treatment and due process in military justice
Topic
Due Process Rights
Slide Id
S10
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
10
Mermaid Diagram
Code
mindmap root((Accused Rights)) Legal Representation Military Counsel Civilian Counsel Free Representation Due Process Know Charges Present Evidence Call Witnesses Cross Examination Self Protection Article 31 Rights Remain Silent No Self Incrimination Appeal Rights Challenge Conviction Review Sentence Higher Court Review
Type
mermaid_mindmap
Description
Comprehensive overview of rights available to accused service members in military justice proceedings
Military Punishments
Military punishments range from minor disciplinary actions to severe penalties including death. The severity matches the seriousness of the offense and its impact on military effectiveness.
Notes
Shows the range of consequences for military offenses
Topic
Punishment System
Slide Id
S11
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
11
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart LR A[Military Punishments] --> B[Administrative] A --> C[Disciplinary] A --> D[Punitive] B --> E[Reprimand] B --> F[Extra Duty] C --> G[Restriction] C --> H[Rank Reduction] D --> I[Confinement] D --> J[Dismissal] D --> K[Death Penalty]
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Hierarchy of military punishments from administrative actions to severe punitive measures
Non-Judicial Punishment (Article 105)
Non-judicial punishment gives commanders flexibility to handle minor offenses quickly without the formal court-martial process. This maintains discipline while preserving court resources for serious cases.
Notes
Balances commander authority with accused rights
Topic
Administrative Discipline
Slide Id
S12
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
12
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart TD A[Minor Offense] --> B[Commander Decision] B --> C{Non-Judicial Punishment?} C -->|Yes| D[Article 105 Action] C -->|No| E[Court-Martial] D --> F[Accept Punishment] D --> G[Demand Court-Martial] F --> H[Quick Resolution] G --> E E --> I[Formal Trial]
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Decision process for non-judicial punishment showing commander discretion and accused options
Lawful Orders and Command Responsibility
The doctrine of lawful orders balances military discipline with moral responsibility. While obedience is essential, it has limits when orders violate law or human rights.
Notes
Critical concept balancing obedience with moral responsibility
Topic
Command and Obedience
Slide Id
S13
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
13
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart TD A[Superior Issues Order] --> B{Order Lawful?} B -->|Yes| C[Must Obey] B -->|No| D[Must Refuse] C --> E[Complete Mission] D --> F[Report to Higher Authority] D --> G[Potential Court-Martial for Disobedience] F --> H[Protection from Retaliation] B --> I[Consider: Legal, Moral, Practical]
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Decision framework for evaluating and responding to military orders
International Humanitarian Law
Military personnel must understand international humanitarian law as it governs conduct in armed conflict. Violations can result in prosecution both domestically and internationally.
Notes
Shows the evolution of laws governing armed conflict
Topic
International Law
Slide Id
S14
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
14
Mermaid Diagram
Code
timeline title International Humanitarian Law Development 1899 : Hague Convention I 1907 : Hague Convention IV 1949 : Geneva Conventions I-IV 1977 : Additional Protocol I 1977 : Additional Protocol II 2005 : Additional Protocol III
Type
mermaid_timeline
Description
Timeline showing the development of international humanitarian law that binds the AFP
Military vs Civilian Court Jurisdiction
Understanding jurisdiction is crucial as military personnel can face prosecution in either military or civilian courts depending on the nature and location of the offense.
Notes
Important for understanding dual legal obligations
Topic
Jurisdiction and Legal Systems
Slide Id
S15
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
15
Mermaid Diagram
Code
flowchart TD A[Military Personnel Offense] --> B{Service Connected?} B -->|Yes| C[Court-Martial] B -->|No| D[Civilian Court] B -->|Mixed| E[Determine Primary Jurisdiction] E --> F[Military Jurisdiction] E --> G[Civilian Jurisdiction] C --> H[Military Justice System] D --> I[Civilian Justice System] F --> H G --> I
Type
mermaid_flowchart
Description
Jurisdiction determination process for military personnel offenses
Code of Conduct for AFP Personnel
The AFP Code of Conduct establishes the moral and ethical foundation for military service. These principles guide decision-making and behavior beyond what law requires.
Notes
Establishes ethical foundation beyond legal requirements
Topic
Military Ethics and Values
Slide Id
S16
Visual Type
none
Image Prompt
Slide Number
16
Mermaid Diagram
Type
none
AFPSAT Application and Key Takeaways
Future AFP members must understand military law from day one to navigate military life effectively. This knowledge helps identify required behaviors, prohibited actions, and limits on authority.
Notes
Summarizes the most testable concepts for AFPSAT
Topic
Exam Preparation and Summary
Slide Id
S17
Visual Type
mermaid
Image Prompt
Slide Number
17
Mermaid Diagram
Code
mindmap root((AFPSAT Articles of War)) Key Offenses Desertion vs AWOL Mutiny and Sedition Disrespect to Superiors Duty Violations Court System General Court Martial Special Court Martial Summary Court Martial Non Judicial Punishment Rights and Responsibilities Due Process Rights Lawful Order Doctrine International Law Command Responsibility Practical Application Jurisdiction Issues Military vs Civilian Law Code of Conduct Professional Ethics
Type
mermaid_mindmap
Description
Comprehensive review of Articles of War topics most relevant for AFPSAT preparation
References
- Commonwealth Act No. 408 (1938) - Articles of War
- 1987 Philippine Constitution - Articles II, VII, and XVI
- Republic Act No. 7055 - Jurisdiction over certain offenses
- Geneva Conventions (1949) and Additional Protocols
- AFP Code of Conduct and Military Ethics Guidelines
- Manual for Courts-Martial, Philippines
- Philippine Military Law and Jurisprudence
- International Humanitarian Law Treaties and Conventions
In summary
The Articles of War represent more than just a legal code - they embody the principles of discipline, justice, and professionalism that define military service. Understanding these articles enables future AFP officers and enlisted personnel to serve with clarity about their rights, responsibilities, and the legal framework governing military life. This knowledge is essential not only for AFPSAT success but for effective and ethical military service throughout one's career. The balance between military necessity and individual rights, between obedience and moral responsibility, and between military and civilian law creates the foundation for a professional military force serving the Filipino people.
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