DND 2023 budget gets strong backing
The Department of National Defense and its attached agencies’ proposed 2023 budget has found a strong backer in Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go as the lawmaker highlighted the DND’s role in in maintaining peace, national security and development.
“They protect our country’s sovereignty.” “We must be of service to them by formulating and pushing for legislation which will support the initiatives for the betterment of the military service,” Go said.
The lawmaker also lauded the sacrifices made by all of the military and other uniformed personnel the country including the police, firefighters, coast guard, and jail personnel, stressing that in order to secure the country, Filipino soldiers are frequently put in perilous situations that endanger both their life and limb and, more importantly, the future of their families and loved ones.
“Their unparalleled service, bravery and heroism should be truly commended,” Go said.
He also urged the government to make sure that former rebels receive the benefits that have been promised to them under the program. Given that the benefits are currently provided separately by various departments, he suggested streamlining their provision and ensuring their seamless delivery.
The E-CLIP or Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program is a package of assistance provided to former rebels. Under the program, former rebels will receive financial support in the form of immediate, livelihood, and reintegration assistance, and firearms remuneration depending on the surrendered firearms, among others.
Go said that more rebels will be encouraged to rejoin society if there is consistency in the delivery of the benefits, which can be achieved by consolidating them under one agency, but clarified that he is not calling into question the program itself. Instead, he supports it and wishes for it to continue by working to ensure its success.
In order to persuade the rebels to surrender, it is crucial, according to Go, that they feel the sincerity of the government. This can be accomplished by ensuring that they receive the benefits and assistance that were promised to them in exchange for their cooperation.