AFP troops in their pass-in-review during the AFP 81st Anniversary in Camp Aguinaldo on December 21, 2016. (File photo by JOAN BONDOC / Philippine Daily Inquirer)
MANILA, Philippines — House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez thanked the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday for its continuous service, assuring troops that Congress would not forget or overlook their sacrifices.
“Your sacrifices have not gone unnoticed, and it is our duty to ensure that you are supported in every possible way,” Romualdez said in his speech at the Luzon leg of the House of Representatives – AFP fellowship at Clark Freeport in Angeles City.
“Your dedication enables the peace and security that allows our nation to thrive. Rest assured, the House of Representatives, and I personally, are unwavering in our commitment to support and honor the sacrifices of our uniformed personnel. Just as you have steadfastly served our nation, we pledge to steadfastly support you,” he added.
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Romualdez also took notice of the AFP’s modernization, not only of its equipment but of the values that the whole military espouses — winning the “proverbial battle for the hearts and minds” of Filipinos and successfully tarnishing its old negative image.
“In its place is the image of the model soldier, worthy of the highest respect and trust of the Filipino people. This achievement is a product of everyone’s discipline, dedication to duty, and sacrifices. For this, the Armed Forces of the Philippines has my utmost esteem. Congratulations everyone. Do carry on,” Romualdez said.
“The fight for a better Philippines continues […] The Armed Forces of the Philippines plays a critical role in this fight, providing the stability the nation needs to sustain its forward momentum.”
To prove that the House is dedicated to protecting the welfare of soldiers, Romualdez cited the passage of the military and uniformed personnel (MUP) pension system.
House Bill (HB) No. 8969 — the proposed Military and Uniformed Personnel Pension System Act — was approved last September 25 with 272 lawmakers voting in the affirmative, four in the negative, and one abstaining.
“Financial sustainability of the pension system is a key focus of the bill, which identifies revenue sources such as the lease, joint development, and disposition of government properties, as well as the income from trust funds created for this purpose,” Romualdez said.
He also mentioned the enactment of Republic Act No. 11939, which seeks to further strengthen professionalism in the AFP by allowing continuous policy development and modernization of the Armed Forces.
“Additional legislative efforts are underway to provide uniformed personnel with complimentary legal assistance and to establish high-quality medical clinics in every command and province, furthering our commitment to their well-being,” Romualdez said.