House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES / FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has assured the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) that the current administration will support the modernization and soldiers’ welfare, as officials made a courtesy call to House leaders.
During a meeting on Tuesday, Romualdez relayed to AFP’s personnel — through 17 star officials and other senior flag officers of the military — that the House will also continue to coordinate with the AFP leadership to address issues that may be raised.
“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,” he added.
Aside from the administration’s support, Romualdez, the lawmakers, and the AFP officials also discussed the proposed additional P350 daily subsistence allowance for soldiers.
Romualdez previously assured the AFP of an increase in the subsistence allowance, which currently stands at P150 per day.
READ: AFP assured: House to increase subsistence allowance to P350
AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jimmy D. Larida said they are happy that Romualdez and the lawmakers set aside “a precious time for us to meet the newly-promoted generals and flag ranks”, while also discussing measures that support the military.
“The Speaker of the House reiterated the commitment, and on behalf of our Chief of Staff, Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., and the entire grateful members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, we are very, very thankful sa confirmation na ibinigay po sa atin ng [that is being provided to us by the] Speaker ng [of the] House, that they will provide the promised increase of our subsistence allowance,” Larida said.
“The Speaker also reiterated the House of Representatives’ commitment to the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Maraming salamat po sa ating 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 added.
Aside from Larida, the following AFP officials were present:
- Lt. Gen. Augustine S. Malinit, Inspector General of the AFP
- Rear Adm. Jose Ma. Ambrosio E. Ezpeleta, newly installed Philippine Navy chief
- Rear Adm. Alan M. Javier, chief of naval staff
- Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel G. Orio, new 8th Infantry (Storm Troopers) Division chief
Romualdez meanwhile was joined by Deputy Speaker David Suarez, Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, Senior Deputy Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos, Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado Revilla, 1-Pacman Party-list Rep. Mikee Romero, Pangasinan Rep. Ramon Guico Jr., and other lawmakers.