The Philippines has announced a significant increase in its defence budget for 2025. The budget will rise to 256.1 billion pesos, which is approximately $4.38 billion. This represents a 6.4% increase compared to the current year. The rise in funding is intended to modernise the country’s military forces. It will also strengthen external defences. The increase is part of a larger strategy to enhance national security.
Reasons for the Increase
The decision to boost the defence budget comes amid rising tensions with China. The South China Sea is a major area of conflict. China claims most of this sea as its own. The Philippines disputes these claims and is working to protect its interests. The increased budget is meant to address these challenges. It aims to ensure the country can defend itself effectively.
Budget Allocation
The government will allocate 204.4 billion pesos of the total 256.1 billion pesos defence budget to the army, air force, and navy. This funding will support various defence programs and upgrades. The remaining 50 billion pesos will help with the armed forces’ modernisation plan. This plan focuses on improving external defence capabilities rather than internal security.
Focus on Sovereignty
According to Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, the increased spending is about maintaining sovereignty. The Philippines is committed to defending its territorial integrity. Given the ongoing disputes in the South China Sea, this commitment is crucial. The government aims to protect and uphold the country’s rights.
Coast Guard Funding
The Philippine Coast Guard will see a budget increase as well. Its budget will rise by 6.0% to 31.4 billion pesos. This boost will support the Coast Guard’s activities in the South China Sea. It will help with patrols and escorting resupply missions. The increased funding reflects the importance of maritime security in the region.
Economic and Social Goals
The overall budget for 2025 is 6.35 trillion pesos. This amount equals 22% of the country’s GDP. It is a 10.1% increase from the current year’s budget. This larger budget supports President Ferdinand Marcos’ economic goals. He aims to grow the economy by up to 8% and reduce poverty rates. The budget increase is a key part of this plan.
Education and Other Sectors
Education will receive the largest share of the budget. It will get 977.6 billion pesos. This allocation is intended to improve the quality of education and access to learning. Other important sectors will also receive substantial funding. Public works will get 900 billion pesos. Health will receive 298 billion pesos, and agriculture will be allocated 211 billion pesos. These investments aim to enhance infrastructure, healthcare, and farming.
Summary
The Philippines is significantly increasing its defence budget for 2025. This boost will help modernise the military and strengthen national security. The increase addresses tensions in the South China Sea and supports various defence programs. Alongside defence, the budget also focuses on key areas like education, health, and infrastructure. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve the country’s economy and overall well-being.