Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has assured soldiers that the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will push for a more than 100% increase in their daily subsistence allowance starting next year.
Speaker Romualdez made this assurance during the House of Representatives-AFP Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM) fellowship at Camp Nakar in Lucena City. The event was attended by House leaders including Deputy Speaker and Quezon 2nd District Rep. David “Jay-jay” Suarez, Appropriations Committee Chairman and Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Elizaldy Co, as well as local officials like Vice Gov. Anacleto Alcala III, SOLCOM chief Lt. Gen. Facundo Palafox IV, and other military officials.
Following President Marcos’ directive, Romualdez stated that the subsistence allowance increase will require a ₱15 billion budget, which the House leadership has committed to include in the proposed 2025 national budget.
Romualdez also acknowledged the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families, ensuring that the House has approved the proposal to secure funding for the pension system of veterans and retired soldiers.
The Speaker affirmed the House’s support for the AFP Modernization Program and the development of the nation’s overall defense posture. He also pledged funding for areas declared insurgency-free.
Speaker Romualdez recognized the hardships and sacrifices of soldiers in defending national sovereignty and praised the operational achievements of SOLCOM under the leadership of Lieutenant General Palafox.
He noted that SOLCOM is involved not only in fighting insurgency but also in patrolling over 15,000 nautical miles and safeguarding thousands of vessels entering the country’s jurisdiction.
Romualdez promised SOLCOM that additional funds will be sourced to complete ongoing infrastructure projects, such as administrative buildings and support facilities.