Zubiri to push for AFP modernization in meeting with DBM

BRP Jose Rizal is the first brand new Philippine Navy ship capable of anti-warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare and electronic warfare operations. (INQUIRER file photo / FRANCES MANGOSING)

CAVITE CITY, Philippines — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri will push for the inclusion of the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)  in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) of 2024.

Zubiri said he will raise the matter during his meeting with Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman next week.

“We have set a meeting with Secretary Pangandaman, we will discuss many things, for example the Maharlika fund, we will also discuss the Maharlika Development Fund. But aside from that, we will segue to the modernization of the armed forces,” Zubiri said in a chance interview with reporters here in Naval Station Pascual Ledesma.

Zubiri attended the christening ceremony of two fast attack interdiction craft platforms BRP Gener Tinangag and BRP Domingo Deluana.

Zubiri said should the DBM say they are not ready to the AFP Modernization in the NEP at least in a particular period of time, the Senate will look for other sources such as budget reallocations to support the Horizon 2 and 3 stage of the AFP modernization.

The program’s Horizon 1 stage, which was implemented from 2013 to 2017, resulted in the acquisition of Del Pilar-class frigates, FA-50PH light-lift interim fighters, among others.

Horizon 2 has been implemented since 2018 as  the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte allotted P300 billion for the acquisition of multiple launch rocket systems, light tanks, armored recovery vehicles, multi-role fighter aircraft, frigates, and submarines.

Horizon 3 is slated from 2023 to 2028 and will prioritize achieving a self-reliant defense posture program, bringing in more sophisticated equipment such as fighter planes and ships.

Meanwhile, Zubiri also vowed to push for the approval of the Philippine Defense Industry Development Act, to build the country’s capacity to  produce arms and vessels

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