HSMR backs AFP modernization, pledges P350 daily allowance

House Speaker Martin Romualdez assured the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday of increased resources, including a proposed increase to a 350-peso daily allowance for soldiers, as well as sustained support for their operations amid calls for withdrawing support from the Marcos administration.

At least 17 generals paid a courtesy visit to the Speaker's office, where discussions revolved around military priorities, including disaster response, counter-insurgency efforts, and challenges faced by troops. Romualdez emphasized that the House of Representatives would back efforts to sustain the AFP’s crucial missions and modernization initiatives by securing an expanded budget.

“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 stated.

He reiterated the House’s commitment to raise the daily subsistence allowance of soldiers from P150 to P350 starting in 2025. Romualdez also affirmed the House’s dedication to accelerating programs that aim to boost the morale of troops, particularly those deployed in remote and high-risk areas.

Lt. Gen. Jimmy Larida, commander of the Southern Luzon Command, expressed gratitude on behalf of AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., saying, "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 Armed Forces of the Philippines, we are very, very thankful for the confirmation given to us by the Speaker of the House, that they will provide the promised increase of our subsistence allowance."

Although he did not explicitly call for a coup, former president Rodrigo Duterte last month urged the military to reconsider its support for the “fractured” government of his successor, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., accusing him of smoking marijuana.

The Department of Justice described Duterte’s statements as “bordering on sedition,” hinting at potential legal action. Duterte has repeatedly targeted Marcos, calling him a “drug addict” and claiming his name was on the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency’s drug watch list.

Marcos dismissed the allegations, suggesting they stemmed from Duterte’s own use of fentanyl.