Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday afternoon reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to supporting the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during a courtesy call by 17 generals and senior flag officers at his office in the House of Representatives.
The delegation, referred by Camiguin Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo, included top-ranking AFP officials who discussed key priorities and challenges faced by the military.
In his address, Romualdez emphasized the importance of providing adequate resources for the military to safeguard national security and maintain peace and order.
He assured the officers of his unwavering support for initiatives that enhance the welfare of uniformed personnel, including his proposal for an additional P350 daily subsistence allowance for soldiers as part of the Marcos administration’s commitment to improving their living conditions.
“Our soldiers are the backbone of our nation’s security and defense. We must ensure they have the resources they need to serve with honor and dedication,” Romualdez said.
“The House of Representatives will continue to work closely with the AFP leadership to address pressing concerns, including adequate funding for operations, modernization efforts, and the welfare of our men and women in uniform,” the Speaker added.
The AFP delegation expressed gratitude for the House leadership’s proactive efforts in championing legislative measures that support the military, particularly in ensuring sufficient budget allocations for its modernization program and personnel welfare initiatives.
“We are delighted that he (Romualdez) spent a precious time for us to meet the newly-promoted generals and flag ranks of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” said Lt. Gen. Jimmy Larida, Commander of Southern Luzon Command (SolCom).
Larida thanked the Speaker on behalf of AFP Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner, Jr. for reiterating his commitments to the AFP, including the increase in the soldiers’ subsistence allowance and the fund allocation for the modernization program.
“Thank you to our Speaker of the House and again, on behalf of the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, we always remain loyal to our Constitution,” he said.
Other top AFP officials who joined the courtesy call include Philippine Air Force Commanding General Lt. Gen. Augustine Malinit, Philippine Navy Vice Commander Rear Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, Naval Inspector General Rear Admiral Alan Javier, and Philippine Army Chief of Staff Major Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, Chief of Staff of the Philippine Army (PA), among others.
