Japan provides ₱337-M assistance for AFP modernization

Metro Manila, Philippines –  The Philippines has received ₱337 million in security assistance from Japan to support the military modernization program, as the administration reaffirmed its commitment to long-term defense capability upgrade.

Equivalent to ¥900 million, the assistance was formalized through an exchange of notes between Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro  and Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu under Japan’s official security assistance program. 

The grant will fund projects aimed at enhancing operational readiness, particularly in maritime security and defense support capabilities.

The Japanese aid comes as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated his support for the modernization program amid regional and domestic security challenges. 

Speaking at a Palace briefing on Wednesday, Jan. 15, Lt. Gen. Rommel Roldan, armed forces deputy chief of staff, noted the president’s cause for the military.

“Patuloy naming nakikita ang malaking suporta ng ating pangulo sa AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) modernization,” Roldan said, adding that this support “nagmamani-manifest sa kanyang masidhing suporta para sa AFP Modernization Program.”

[Translation: We continue to see the strong support of our president for AFP modernization,” Roldan said, adding that the President’s concern for the armed forces “is manifested in his strong and sustained backing for the AFP Modernization Program.]

Roldan said the public can expect the delivery of military equipment within the year, which will enhance support for troops on the ground. 

He also noted that with the law governing the modernization program expiring next year, the military is prepared to give technical guidance to the Department of National Defense, other government agencies, and lawmakers in crafting new legislation.

Roldan said the AFP is actively engaging legislators to underscore the need for a new modernization law, citing national security requirements. Under the proposed 2026 national budget, the AFP is set to receive ₱40 billion for modernization, in addition to a ₱50-billion unprogrammed appropriation for similar efforts.