House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

Speaker Martin Romualdez reaffirmed the House of Representatives' commitment to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during a courtesy call of 17 generals and senior flag officers at Batasan complex.

“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 in a speech as he received the generals on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

The delegation, referred by Camiguin lone district Rep. Jurdin Jesus “JJ” Romualdo, included top-ranking AFP officials. They discussed key priorities and challenges faced by the military.

In his address, Romualdez emphasized the importance of providing adequate resources for the AFP to safeguard national security and maintain peace and order. 

The Speaker assured the officers of his unwavering support for initiatives that enhance the welfare of military personnel, including his proposal for an additional P350 daily subsistence allowance for soldiers.

The proposal is part of the Marcos administration’s commitment to improve the living conditions of those in uniform.

“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,” the Speaker said. 

The AFP delegation expressed gratitude for the Speaker’s proactive efforts in championing legislative measures that support the military, particularly in ensuring sufficient budget allocations for its modernization program and personnel welfare initiatives.

“We are very happy na binigyan kami ng time ng ating honorable congressmen led by the Speaker of the House, Congressman Martin Romualdez. We are delighted that he spent a precious time for us to meet the newly-promoted generals and flag ranks of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Lt. Gen. Jimmy D. Larida, AFP Deputy Chief of Staff, said.        

“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 [AFP], we are very, very thankful sa confirmation na ibinigay po sa atin ng Speaker ng 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 [AFP]. Maraming salamat po sa ating Speaker of the House and again, on behalf of the Chief-of-Staff of the [AFP], we always remain loyal to our Constitution,” he said. 

The Speaker also highlighted the need to fast-track the implementation of programs aimed at uplifting soldiers' morale, particularly those deployed in remote and high-risk areas. 

He assured the officers that the proposed budget for 2025 includes provisions to address these needs.

Other top AFP officials who joined the courtesy call include Lt. Gen. Augustine Malinit, inspector general of the AFP; Rear Adm. Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, newly-installed Philippine Navy chief; Rear Adm. Alan Javier, chief of naval staff; Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio, new 8th Infantry (Storm Troopers) division chief. 

Accompanying Romualdez during the short meeting were House Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” Dalipe, Deputy Speaker David “Jay-Jay” 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, Pangasinan Rep. Ramon Guico Jr., among others.