House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

Speaker Martin Romualdez said senior officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reaffirmed their loyalty to the Constitution and the duly-constituted government of President Marcos Jr. during a courtesy call at the House of Representatives. 

“We commit to the Constitution and the duly-constituted authorities. We will watch your back,” said AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jimmy D. Larida, who assured Speaker Romualdez of the military’s dedication to its constitutional mandate.

Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon, commander of the Armed Forces Intelligence Command, echoed this commitment, as he emphasized the military’s professionalism and support for government institutions.

“The Armed Forces will remain professional, mission-focused, and always supportive of duly-constituted government,” Barandon said.

The AFP officials' courtesy call on Romualdez, the leader of the House of Representatives, took place on Tuesday, Dec. 3.

The meeting, which included 17 newly promoted generals and senior flag officers, centered on the government’s support for the military through increased funding and welfare programs.

Romualdez pledged full support for the AFP’s modernization efforts and reaffirmed his earlier proposal to provide a daily subsistence allowance of at least ₱350 for soldiers. This initiative was an offshoot of the directive from President Marcos’ vision of improving the lives of uniformed personnel.

“Kung susuportahan po ng Senado ang ating panukala at madagdagan pa ang pondo, mas maganda para sa kapakanan ng ating mga sundalo,” Romualdez noted. 

(If the Senate will support our proposal and increase the funding, then that would be better for the welfare of our soldiers.)

The P6.352-trillion 2025 General Appropriations Bill (GAB) or proposed national budget is currently under deliberation by the Bicameral Conference Committee. The panel is composed of select House members and senators.

“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,” underscored the Speaker.

The leader of the 300-plus-strong legislative chamber also called for the swift implementation of programs to boost the morale of soldiers, particularly those in remote and high-risk areas.

The AFP delegation expressed gratitude to Speaker Romualdez for his commitment, and described his reassurances as vital to troop morale and an affirmation to their loyalty to the Constitution and the government.

“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,” Romualdez said.