In a call for heightened national security, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has proposed increasing the Philippines' defense spending to as much as 4% of the country's GDP. This initiative aims to fortify military capabilities in response to persistent tensions with China.
A Shift in Defense Strategy
We definitely need to realign. It’s not might. We need to, because the budget is a finite item.
Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Defense Secretary
Teodoro spoke during the Stratbase Institute’s event marking the 10th anniversary of the 2016 arbitral ruling on the South China Sea, asserting that increased military spending is essential for modernization and deterrence.
Currently, the Philippines' defense budget is positioned at 1.3 to 1.4% of GDP. Teodoro indicated that achieving the proposed spending levels would necessitate a government budget realignment.
He emphasized the importance of enhancing the Armed Forces’ capabilities along with expanding defense partnerships with allies. Teodoro stated, "The basis really is to build our own internal deterrence mechanisms as quickly as possible."
In light of these developments, the Armed Forces of the Philippines plans to increase patrols not only in the West Philippine Sea but also in the Philippine Rise and the broader Pacific Ocean. Teodoro highlighted the importance of vigilance in these waters.
To support the incoming naval assets under modernization efforts, Teodoro noted the need for additional naval infrastructure, which he described as overdue.
Teodoro reaffirmed the significance of the 2016 arbitral ruling in shaping the Philippines' legal stance on territorial claims, stating that any leader dismissing the ruling would lack public support.