THE House of Representatives is set to back measures to increase the proposed 2024 budget for the country’s Defense capabilities.
This move aims to safeguard the nation’s sovereign rights, particularly following an incident where a Philippine vessel was targeted by a water cannon from the Chinese Coast Guard.
According to Speaker Martin Romualdez, the House of Representatives stands united in President Bongbong Marcos’s commitment to protecting the territorial integrity of the Philippines against any threat.
“As a nation, we must take proactive measures to enhance our defense capabilities and ensure that we have the necessary resources to effectively protect our sovereign rights,” Speaker Martin Romualdez said.
Meanwhile, Defense Panel chairman Buboy Tupas stated that they will focus on this issue during the upcoming budget hearings.
“That’s quite opportune because the budget for next year, and the following year, is being discussed now. This is the beauty of being able to anticipate our needs. What happened to the Philippine Coast Guard won’t just fall under the Department of Transportation, but of course, the role of the Department of National Defense is still there,” Rep. Raul ‘Boboy’ Tupas, Chairman, House Committee on Defense and National Security said.
The lawmaker emphasized that resolution, respect, and restraint are essential in handling this issue, particularly since the West Philippine Sea is important for Filipinos.
“When we talk about resolution, it should be in accordance with international laws. Respect for our sovereignty and restraint with regard to our government’s response. Because we have to consider the context of the Philippines and China, but we see that what was done was uncalled for,” Tupas added.
In the 2024 proposed budget, there will be an allocation of P282.7 billion for the defense sector, representing a 21.6% increase compared to the P203.4 billion budget for this year.
According to President Marcos Jr.’s budget message, the 2024 budget will support the Land, Air, and Naval Forces Defense Programs of the government with P188.5 billion.
It will also include funding for the UN Peacekeeping Mission to ensure the domestic security of the country.
“As your President and Commander-in-Chief, I assure you that this Administration is committed to supporting you by modernizing the Army and the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” President Marcos added.
