Pinapurihan ni Speaker Martin Romualdez ang pagbibigay prayoridad ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sa national security at defense modernization, kasunod ng pormal na paglagda sa Republic Act (RA) 10242 o Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act.
Nilalayon ng batas na ito na palakasin ang national defense industry ng bansa sa pamamagitan ng military at civilian partnership, pagdating sa local production ng military technology, armas, bala at combat clothing.
Itinutulak dito na magkaroon ng sariling produksyon at suplay na pangdepensa ang bansa upang protektahan ang pambansang soberanya para sa isang mas mabisang defense acquisition.
“As a nation, we are committed to peace and diplomacy in the resolution of disputes, but we will also stand by our duty to defend our territory and uphold international law. This law ensures that our military is well-prepared and self-sufficient,” sabi ni Romualdez.
Para kay Romualdez, mahalaga ang batas na ito upang mabawasan ang pagiging dependent ng bansa sa foreign military imports.
Kasabay nito ay maaari din itong magbukas ng mga trabaho at technological innovation na makatutulong din sa pagpapaunlad ng ating ekonomiya.
“This law will not only strengthen our security but also open up opportunities for our industries to grow and innovate. It paves the way for greater collaboration between government and private sector partners to build a robust defense ecosystem,” dagdag ng House leader.
Naniniwala si Romualdez, na isa rin itong mensahe na seryoso ang Pilipinas sa pagprotekta ng ating soberanya.
“This is a pivotal moment for the country. The passage and signing of this law sends a strong message that we are serious about protecting our sovereignty and securing our future,” ayon sa Leyte solon.
Tiniyak din ng House leader na susuportahan ng Kongreso ang pagpopondo para sa implementasyon ng batas upang maisakatuparan ang modernisasyon ng ating AFP.
“As the leader of the House of Representatives, I pledge our full support in allocating the necessary resources to turn this law into reality. We will ensure that our armed forces have the tools, technology, and resources they need to protect our sovereignty and defend our people from any external aggression,” pagsiguro pa niya. | ulat ni Kathleen Forbes
