DBM: Defense sector wants P431B

THE government has proposed a P431-billion defense budget in 2026, seeking to ramp border protection, Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said, amid escalating maritime tensions in the South China Sea.

In a statement on Thursday, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Chief said the government has allocated P430.87 billion for the defense sector “to protect the nation’s sovereignty and strengthen peace and order.”

This was 13.72% higher from P378.89 billion in the 2025 General Appropriations Act.

The Philippine Coast Guard earlier announced that a Chinese coast guard vessel fired a water cannon at a Philippine ship near Scarborough Shoal. This resulted to a shattered bridge glass, damaging electrical systems and an injured Filipino crew member.

This investment reflects the state’s commitment to support those in uniform, modernize defense systems, and guarantee that peace and security remain the foundation of national progress, Ms. Pangandaman said.

Out of the proposed sector budget, P299.3 billion earmarked for the Department of National Defense and its attached agencies in the controversial 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP), the DBM said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is set to receive P286.9 billion next year, up 8.6% from its 2025 allocation. This includes P142.1 billion for the Philippine Army, P59.4 billion for the Navy, and P59.1 billion for the Air Force.

In addition, P40 billion is proposed for the Revised AFP Modernization Program to equip Filipino soldiers with modern systems and tools.

The DBM also noted that subsistence allowance of Military and Uniformed Personnel saw an increased program to P350 per day from P150.

On top of this, P71.6 billion is allotted to support troops and their families, it said. — Aubrey Rose A. Inosante