House supports increased spending for defense in ’24 budget
SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Tuesday said the House of Representatives supports the increased spending for the defense sector under the proposed P5.768-trillion 2024 national budget to bolster our capability in protecting the country’s territorial integrity.
On Monday Romualdez backed President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to consult military leaders on the illegal use of water cannons by Chinese ships on Philippine Coast Guard and civilian vessels resupplying a platoon of Filipino soldiers stationed in Ayungin Shoal off Palawan.
“Our commitment to safeguarding our territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of our citizens remains unwavering.
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,” Romualdez said.
He noted that under the proposed 2024 budget, the allocation for the defense sector is P282.7 billion, or 21.6 percent more compared to the P203.4 billion allocation under the 2023 budget.
According to the President’s budget message, this fund will support the Land, Air, and Naval Forces Defense Programs, totaling P188.5 billion, as well as the UN Peacekeeping Mission, among others, to ensure domestic security.
“We must remember that a strong defense is not merely a tool for confrontation, but a means to uphold peace, stability and the rule of law,” he added.
He said it is the duty of the entire government that our nation is adequately equipped to face any challenges that may come our way.
The Speaker also expressed his support for diplomatic actions the government is taking in relation to the harassment of Coast Guard and civilian ships on a resupply mission last Saturday.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has sent a diplomatic note to Beijing protesting the Ayungin water cannon blast incident.
Romualdez commended the President for his firm stand on the issue of Philippine sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea.
