The Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Revitalization Act has officially become law after being signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. this morning before his departure to Laos for the ASEAN Summit.
This new law aims to strengthen the local production of weapons and defense equipment for the country’s armed forces.
President Marcos emphasized that the enactment of this law will solidify the country’s strategy of relying on its own resources and capabilities for defense.
He added that the Constitution mandates the State to “serve and protect” its citizens and sovereignty, a duty that is both proactive and preparatory for any future challenges.
The President pointed out that for decades, the country’s defense capabilities have been heavily dependent on foreign suppliers.
This law is seen as a significant step forward for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Marcos further explained that the SRDP Program, first implemented under his father, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., laid the groundwork for a self-reliant defense strategy, encouraging the country to utilize its own resources and abilities.
The new law mandates the preference for Filipino-owned enterprises in the development, production, or servicing of military technology, weapon systems, arms, ammunition, combat clothing, armor, vehicles, and other military equipment.
It will reduce the country’s dependence on foreign suppliers and also create jobs for Filipinos.
Present at the signing event were Speaker Martin Romualdez, Senate President Chiz Escudero, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, and AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner.