House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday assured the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) of budgetary support, including the proposed PHP350 daily subsistence allowance increase for soldiers, in line with the Marcos administration’s commitment to improving the living conditions of uniformed personnel.

Romualdez gave the assurance during a courtesy call made by 17 generals and senior flag officers at the Speaker’s Office.

He said the proposed 2025 national budget includes provisions to address the needs of soldiers.

“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,” he said.

Romualdez pledged the House’s continued collaboration with the AFP leadership to secure sufficient funding for operations, modernization efforts, and the welfare of those in uniform.

AFP Deputy Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Jimmy D. Larida, expressed gratitude for Romualdez’s proactive efforts, describing the proposed allowance increase as a significant morale booster for soldiers.

“We are very, very thankful sa confirmation na ibinigay po sa atin ng (given by the) Speaker ng House that they will provide the promised increase of our subsistence allowance,” Larida said.

Commitment to the Constitution

Larida also lauded the House’s backing for the AFP’s modernization programs and other initiatives aimed at maintaining national security, as he reaffirmed the military’s commitment to the Constitution.

“Maraming salamat po sa ating (Thank you very much 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.

The Speaker, meanwhile, cited the need to fast-track the implementation of programs aimed at uplifting soldiers’ morale, particularly those deployed to remote and high-risk areas.

Other high-ranking officials in the AFP delegation were Lt. Gen. Augustine Malinit, AFP inspector general; Rear Adm. Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, Philippine Navy chief; Rear Adm. Alan M. Javier, chief of naval staff; and Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8th Infantry Division.

The House leaders who joined the short meeting were House Majority Leader Manuel Jose Dalipe, Deputy Speaker David Suarez, Senior Deputy Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado Revilla, 1-Pacman Party-list Rep. Mikee Romero, and Pangasinan Rep. Ramon Guico Jr., among others. (PNA)