IN the face of rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea, Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, at the start of deliberations on the General Appropriations Act 2025 in the Senate this week, has called for increased funding to support the country’s military forces, particularly the Marines and Coast Guard personnel deployed in the region. With the Philippine military stretched thin in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests, prioritizing the safety and operational needs of these servicemen, indeed, is not just a necessity—it is a responsibility.
The recent reduction by the House of Representatives of the proposed P50 billion additional funding for the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program by P10 billion, as disclosed by Dela Rosa, is a disheartening setback. Restoring the cut is essential to show the government’s full commitment to our troops. These men and women, who face daily risks to protect our country, deserve modern equipment and resources that underscore the seriousness of their mission.
During the interpellations, Senate President “Chiz” Escudero echoed Dela Rosa’s concerns but also expressed the need for caution in allocating funds. He cited examples of past mismanagement, such as the P8 billion worth of missiles from India that remain unused due to the lack of a missile site, and urged proper scrutiny of future military allocations to ensure that each peso is used effectively. The AFP could very well provide updates on delayed procurements, possibly in an executive session, as the Senate President suggested.
Still, Dela Rosa rightly points out that troop morale is just as important as acquiring advanced technology. The delays in the AFP Modernization Program have clearly impacted the country’s defense capabilities, and this must be addressed. However, as the senator emphasized, Filipino soldiers are willing to fight and even die for our country, but they must feel the government’s full support behind them.
Senator Francis Tolentino shared this sentiment, emphasizing that morale should not be measured solely by technological capabilities. He shared that earlier that the day, the AFP had conducted its first island seizure exercise in the WPS, an operation that involved retaking an island within the disputed area. He also informed the senators that the AFP would soon be signing two important pieces of legislation—the Maritime Zones Law and the Archipelagic Sea Lanes Law—which would strengthen the country’s legal framework in the WPS.
In times like these, the need to support our soldiers is unquestionable. These men and women risk their lives in defense of our nation, and they deserve more than our gratitude—they deserve modernized equipment and the full backing of the state.
