Senator Gatchalian Advocates for Increased Cyber Defense Budget

• •Senator Gatchalian calls for increased AFP budget for cyber defense amid geopolitical tensions.
• •Cyber warfare is now considered a critical component of military operations.
• •The AFP's dual role includes both national defense and disaster response capabilities.

Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian is advocating for a higher budget for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to enhance its cyber defense capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions. During a Senate hearing on the Department of National Defense's proposed budget, Gatchalian emphasized the necessity of continued military modernization and investment in cyber warfare capabilities. He noted that cyber warfare is now an aspect of modern military operations, highlighting the importance of sustained funding to address emerging security threats. Gatchalian also called for improved funding for the AFP's disaster response capabilities, underscoring the military's dual role in national defense and response. He referenced ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe as factors necessitating these enhancements. The senator's push for budget increases aims to ensure the AFP is well-equipped to handle both traditional and modern challenges.