By Junex Doronio

MANILA — Senior officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have reiterated their unwavering loyalty to the Constitution and the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. during a courtesy call on Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez at the House of Representatives.

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

Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon, commander of the Armed Forces Intelligence Command, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the AFP’s professionalism and its support for government institutions.

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

The meeting on December 3, 2024, included 17 newly promoted generals and senior flag officers and focused on government initiatives to support the military, including increased funding and welfare programs.

Speaker Romualdez pledged his commitment to the AFP’s modernization efforts and reiterated his proposal for a daily subsistence allowance of at least ₱350 for soldiers. He emphasized that this measure aligns with President Marcos’ directive to enhance the lives of uniformed personnel.

“In the 2025 national budget version approved by Congress, we allocated funds for the ₱350 daily subsistence allowance as part of President Marcos’ vision to aid our soldiers,” Romualdez explained. “If the Senate supports and increases the funding, it will further benefit our soldiers’ welfare.”

The Speaker also highlighted the importance of morale-boosting programs for soldiers, particularly those deployed in remote and high-risk areas.

“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 said.

The AFP delegation expressed gratitude to the Speaker for his unwavering support, describing his reassurances as vital to troop morale and reaffirming their loyalty to the Constitution and the government.

Several House leaders, including Majority Leader Manuel Jose “Mannix” M. Dalipe, Deputy Speaker David “Jay-Jay” Suarez, and Senior Deputy Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos, also attended the meeting. They vowed to back legislative measures that enhance the military’s operational readiness and welfare.

“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 concluded.

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