VOTING 20-0-0, the Senate approved, on third and final reading on December 11, a measure that seeks to develop the country’s defense industry and enhance its locally produced advanced weaponry and equipment for the armed forces.
The bill, known as the “Self-Reliant Defense Posture Revitalization Act” or Senate Bill (SB) 2455, is aimed at revitalizing and strengthening the defense posture program of the country while promoting the development of a national defense industry.
Authored primarily by Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri, the measure aims to reduce the Philippines’ dependence on foreign and overseas suppliers and create employment opportunities, in accordance with Section 12, Article XII of the Philippine Constitution.
The constitutional provision mandates the state to “promote the preferential use of Filipino labor, domestic materials, and locally produced goods, and adopt measures that help make them competitive.”
“We hope to limit Philippine dependence on allies for defense requirements and develop the defense capability of the country, as well as reduce foreign exchange outflow, generate local employment opportunities, and enhance technology transfer to the Philippines,” Zubiri said.
Under SB 2455, companies seeking to sell firearms to the armed forces will be required to establish shops and manufacture the weapons in the Philippines, contributing to the country’s income and employment generation.
The bill also establishes the Office of the Undersecretary for Defense Technology Research and Industry Development (DTRID) as an attached body to the Department of National Defense (DND).
DTRID will be authorized to manage a database for analysis, conduct research and development, facilitate technology transfer, promote the defense industry, establish public-private partnerships, initiate domestic and foreign collaborations, and provide recommendations to the DND secretary on policies, rules, and regulations for the development of the National Defense Industry.
In addition, the bill mandates the formulation of a Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Program by the Defense department through DTRID.
This program aims to revitalize the defense industry, develop and strengthen allied industries, and address short-, medium-, and long-term needs for defense materiel.
The approval of SB 2455 signifies the government’s commitment to building a self-reliant defense industry, ensuring the country’s security and promoting economic growth.
By promoting the use of local labor, materials, and goods, the bill not only enhances the defense capabilities of the Philippines but also boosts the domestic economy by creating employment opportunities and reducing the outflow of foreign exchange.
Furthermore, the establishment of the DTRID and the SRDP Program will provide a framework for research, development, and collaboration in the defense industry, fostering innovation and technology transfer to the Philippines.
With the passage of this bill, the Philippines takes a significant step towards becoming self-sufficient in meeting its defense needs, while also strengthening its position in the global defense market.
By developing a robust defense industry, the country can reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers and ensure the availability of advanced weaponry and equipment for its armed forces.
Overall, the approval of Senate Bill 2455 is a crucial milestone in the pursuit of national security and economic development for the Philippines.
Source: The Manila Times
