Turns over P200K worth of rice and groceries WESCOM

SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Friday assured soldiers that the House of Representatives and the Marcos administration are committed to a strong, well-equipped military and a robust national defense capability.

He made the assurance when he arrived at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)-Western Command (WESCOM) headquarters in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, where he was accorded arrival honors.

Other lawmakers, military officers and local officials, including Representatives Jose Alvarez of Palawan, Edvic Yap and Erwin Tulfo of ACT-CIS party-list, WESCOM commander Vice Admiral Alberto Carlos and his officers, along with other local officials of the province, welcomed the Speaker.

Speaker Romualdez told AFP officers and men that “in recognition of your valor and dedication, I am here to affirm the government’s commitment to enhancing our nation’s defense capabilities.”

“I want to assure every member of the Armed Forces that the House of Representatives, along with the national government, stands firmly behind you,” he said.

“We are committed to ensuring that your needs are met, your capabilities are enhanced, and your welfare is prioritized. Your dedication to our country inspires us, and it is only right that we support you with the resources necessary to carry out your noble duties,” he said.

As part of his visit to Palawan, Speaker Romualdez turned over to Vice Admiral Carlos a donation of P200,000 worth of rice and groceries for the benefit of the men and women in uniform of the WESCOM.

According to Speaker Romualdez, the government’s commitment to a strong, robust, and modern military is reflected in the allocation of a significantly bigger budget for the defense sector.

“The increase in your budget is a strategic decision, aimed at ensuring that our military is not only equipped but also prepared to meet the evolving challenges of national security,” he added.

This, according to the Speaker, was a deliberate move to ensure our military infrastructure is robust, our defense capabilities are modern, and our servicemen and women are well-cared for.

“We understand that a well-funded military is pivotal for maintaining peace and security, and this understanding has guided our fiscal decisions,” he stressed.

The leader of the 300-plus-strong House pointed out that the increase likewise aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the armed forces by providing them with state-of-the-art technology and weaponry to effectively counter and manage threats.

In addition, he said the government’s “investment” in its military extends to the improvement of the living conditions, the healthcare, and the overall welfare of soldiers and their families.

“We believe that the strength of our military lies not just in its arsenal, but in the well-being of its members,” he emphasized.

The increased military budget is also intended to support comprehensive training and education programs, ensuring that soldiers are adept, well-trained, and capable of navigating the complexities of contemporary warfare and defense strategies, Speaker Romualdez said.

He said the government is likewise investing in research and development to innovate and stay ahead in technological advancements, which are crucial in modern defense and security.

He thanked AFP members for their “unwavering service to our nation.”

“Rest assured, the government is with you every step of the way, committed to providing the support and resources necessary for the safety and security of our beloved Philippines,” he said.