AFP to give inputs on Marcos’ priority bills on security, defense — acting spox

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has expressed readiness to provide inputs for the priority measures on defense and national security mentioned during the State of the Nation Address (SONA).

During his first SONA, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. enumerated several legislation that he wants the Congress to pass under his administration.

“The AFP will be ready to provide inputs on matters related to national security which include the National Defense Act, Mandatory ROTC to Senior High School students, the Unified Pension System for members of uniformed personnel who are with disability…” AFP acting spokesperson Colonel Medel Aguilar said on Monday.

Aside from these, Marcos also suggested the creation of a Medical Reserve Corp (MRC) under the Health and Emergency Management Bureau (HEMB) of the Department of Health.

Aguilar said the AFP is also willing to help the MRC through organization and training.

Defense spokesperson Director Arsenio Andolong on Tuesday said the ROTC revival will improve the preparation of the youth for national defense and disaster response. 

“The Department has been pushing for an amendment of the NDA for years. A new NDA will determine the size, shape, and capabilities of the DND and AFP based on today's realities and requirement,” he said in a statement.

According to Andolong, the DND also recognized the need for a unified system of separation, retirement, and pension for military and uniformed personnel. 

In a separate statement, the Philippine National Police also supported the mandatory ROTC program in senior high school.

"These promote the level of leadership and discipline, as well as the patriotic attitude or character of every Filipino, so this is really welcome in my opinion," PNP director for operation Police Major General Valeriano de Leon said.

Asked about how the AFP would approach defense and security issues over the West Philippine Sea (WPS) which was not specifically mentioned in the SONA, Aguilar said Marcos can use other means, not only the armed forces.

“Aside from the military, the President can use other elements of national power in advancing our national interest. That, however, is beyond the AFP’s core competency,” he said.

Meanwhile, the DND will adhere to Marcos’ guidance to build stronger, multifaceted relations with our neighbors but not at the expense of sovereignty and territorial integrity, Andolong said.

“This will be accomplished through active engagement and dialogues with our foreign defense and military counterparts.  The President was firm in his direction – we shall not cede an inch of our territory to any foreign power,” he said.—Joviland Rita/AOL, GMA News