An expert warns that the budget cut for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) modernization could affect the alliance between the Philippines and the United States.
Defense and International Studies expert Prof. Renato de Castro made this statement in light of the budget cuts approved by Congress.
Based on the bicameral conference committee report, the budget allocated for AFP modernization in 2025 is limited to P35 billion, which is P15 billion less than the amount requested by the Department of National Defense (DND).
In an exclusive interview with DZRH on Sunday, de Castro warned that President-elect Donald Trump, known for his transactional approach with allies, might take notice of this.
"Ito 'yung approach niya sa North Atlantic Treaty Organization [at] ito rin 'yung approach niya sa bansang Hapon at bansang South Korea. 'Bibigyan namin kayo ng proteksyon pero tataas niyo 'yung defense budget niyo," said de Castro.
Earlier this year, the United States pledged $500 million in military aid to the Philippines, focused on strengthening territorial defense amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
Meanwhile, the AFP remains confident in the commitment of government agencies to support its modernization efforts.
When asked at Camp Aguinaldo, AFP Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura said that only a few programs were affected by the budget cut.
Moreover, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. himself pledged his commitment to making the AFP world-class.
Several senior military officials have met with House Speaker Martin Romualdez, where the House reiterated its support for the modernization program.
Furthermore, the daily subsistence allowance for soldiers will be raised to P350, from P150, in 2025.
