Speaker Martin Romualdez on Saturday assured soldiers the administration will push for more than a 100 percent increase in their daily subsistence allowance in 2025.
“From P150 per day, we will double your daily subsistence allowance. Our target is to raise this to as much as P350 per day,” Romualdez said during the House of Representatives-AFP Southern Luzon Command fellowship at Camp Nakar in Lucena City.
As instructed by President Marcos, the leader of the 307-strong House said the increase would entail P15 billion in additional funding, which he committed to include in the 2025 national budget being scrutinized by his chamber.
He said the House has also passed on third and final reading the bill that will institutionalize a sustainable pension system for veterans and military retirees.
“Additionally, we are pushing for measures to provide quality healthcare and legal assistance for personnel in the lawful performance of their duties,” Romualdez said.
He said the House likewise remains committed to supporting the AFP Modernization Program, as well as House Bills 11, 6375, and 7764 — aimed at improving the nation’s overall defense posture.
“We are also exploring resources to further strengthen archipelagic defense and international alliances in the face of modern-day security challenges,” Romualdez said.
At the same time, the House leader committed funding for areas that have been declared as communist insurgency-free.
“We in the House of Representatives are fully committed to supporting the peace-building efforts in recently cleared areas. To consolidate these gains, I will advocate for more infrastructure and barangay development projects, which are crucial for long-term stability,” Romualdez said.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Romualdez assures soldiers of over 100% increase in daily allowance.”
