In the Senate plenary deliberations for the 2024 proposed national budget, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed strong support for the Department of National Defense (DND), while raising concerns about the proposed mandatory pension contributions and advocating for enhanced disaster management efforts.

"I just want to express my full and strong support for the Department of National Defense headed by Secretary Gibo Teodoro and its attached agencies," said Go in his interpellation.

The senator lauded the DND for its consistent efforts in "relentlessly pursuing the professionalization, modernization, and development of the defense sector to protect the national interest and respond effectively to domestic and global challenges."

He then recalled, "Under the administration of former president Rodrigo Duterte, he made sure that the defense sector's trajectory will continue its upward momentum and lead to sustained peace and stability for the nation."

Go also noted the increased focus on professionalization and meritocracy in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during Duterte's tenure. He pointed out the tangible benefits of these policies, such as "doubled or increased the compensation of the military and uniformed personnel in recognition of their valiant efforts and to protect and secure our country."

Go then highlighted the essential role played by the military and uniformed personnel in ensuring national security. He stated, "Our military and uniformed personnel perform a vital task of ensuring our nation's peace and security."

He further emphasized the need to support them, "We must therefore pledge to continue to provide them with the means necessary to carry out their mission effectively and pay them back by continuing to provide a system that will cater to their needs."

The senator then shifted his focus to the recent amendments in military law, particularly concerning promotions and retirements within the ranks of the AFP. Go brought attention to the legislative changes, stating, "Itong Republic Act 11939 was enacted to amend Republic Act 11709… The new law adjusts the retirement age of the military and amended the prescribed authorized number of officers in the active force in each grade."