Ceremonial Hall, Malacañan Palace
October 8, 2024
“Through this Act, we can build on its legacy and expand upon that same vision — a defense posture that is independent, dynamic and geared to the future,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. conveyed following the enactment of the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Revitalization Act in Malacañan Palace — a Law that strengthens the Philippines’ defense strategies by relying firmly upon the country’s own resources and capabilities.
The SRDP Revitalization Act, or Republic Act (R.A.) No. 12024 is expected to spur the growth of an independent national defense through the establishment of a self-reliant defense posture program that prioritizes the development of the nation’s defense capacities and a competent domestic defense industry. It is also geared towards the development of a local defense industry through partnerships between the government and the private sector to attain domestic production for weapons and other defense materiel for the country’s security forces.
In his remarks, the President underscored the Law as crucial and went beyond the development of equipment as it seeks to create a framework that makes the country less dependent, more resilient and better prepared.
“It is a commitment to a long-term growth trajectory for a national defense industry that will support the defense requirements of our country. This is a logical move forward for a country that finds itself at the fulcrum of geopolitical shifts and volatilities,” he said.
“At its core, this Act is about cultivating a robust and sustainable National Defense Industry. It establishes a structured approach to defense development, starting with research and production capabilities that align our defense sector with our strategic objectives,” the President added.
Implemented during the Administration of former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., the SRDP Program is focused on innovation and technology development as the national government continues to pursue the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program. With its institutionalization, the Department of National Defense (DND) envisions the lessening of dependence on foreign military for the acquisition of military equipment, as well as transforming the AFP into a multi-mission-oriented force capable of addressing internal and external security.
“We are broadening our perspective on defense. We are not just looking at tanks and rifles; we are building capacities that address these unconventional dangers head-on. This means developing systems and strategies that are reactive and predictive, allowing us to stay a step ahead of those who wish to harm the Philippines,” President Marcos Jr. stressed.
Likewise, the Commander-in-Chief extended his gratitude to all legislators for their significant contributions in the timely passage of the Law and for supporting the Administration’s defense strategy.
“So together, let us build a robust defense industry that enhances national security, strengthens defense capabilities and reinforces economic growth. Let this law lead us to a truly self-reliant defense posture — one that reflects the spirit, the skill and resilience of the Filipino people,” President Marcos Jr. concluded in his speech.
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