Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez today hailed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for signing the Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act, saying it marks a significant milestone for the nation’s defense capabilities, particularly amid escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
Romualdez commended the administration for prioritizing national security and defense modernization, expressing optimism that the revitalized defense posture will be instrumental in preserving peace and stability in the region while protecting the country’s maritime interests.
“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,” he explained.
The newly-minted law aims to boost local defense industries, enhance military modernization efforts, and foster partnerships with allied nations to secure a credible defense posture in the face of external threats.
“This is a pivotal moment for the country. The passage and signing of this law send a strong message that we are serious about protecting our sovereignty and securing our future,” Romualdez said in a press release Oct. 8.
Republic Act No. 10242 is a consolidation of House Bill 9713 and Senate Bill 2455, and was among the priority measures of Marcos and the Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council.
“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,” Romualdez said.
“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,” he added. ||
