Legarda Hails Signing into Law of AFP Modernization Act

SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA HAILED THE SIGNING INTO LAW OF THE AFP MODERNIZATION ACT, A MEASURE THAT ALLOCATES AT LEAST P75 BILLION FOR THE FIRST FIVE YEARS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE AFP MODERNIZATION PROGRAM SUBJECT TO THE CAPACITY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF NATIONAL DEFENSE (DND).
“Tasked to be where the threats and dangers are, we cannot overemphasize the value of the arduous mission our soldiers have to undertake in order to protect the people and the State from lawless violence, invasion, rebellion, terrorist acts and other activities that might affect national security and bring harm to the independence of our nation. This is why they need our support,” she explained.
President Benigno Aquino III signed Republic Act 10349 on Tuesday. Legarda, an AFP reserve officer, co-sponsored the said measure, stating that the new security and defense environment has radically changed since the last AFP modernization law.
“The linchpin of our security is now in the waters where our energy, food and environmental security lie. Thus, capabilities and equipment of the AFP should be reinforced to reflect this need,” she said.
“Through the AFP Modernization Act, we are addressing the long-standing concerns of our soldiers who constantly put their lives on the line in the service of our nation. The passage of this Act is a commendable contribution to our national security,” Legarda concluded.