NEW LAW ADVANCES LOCAL DEFENSE INDUSTRY  

MANILA, (PIA) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12024, known as the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) Revitalization Act, during a ceremony at Malacañan Palace on October 8, 2024. This new law aims to boost the country’s domestic production and manufacturing of defense assets and hardware.

The revitalization of the SRDP Program is designed to develop an independent and dynamic defense system that utilizes the Philippines’ own capabilities and resources to meet the weapon and material requirements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and other law enforcement agencies.

Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., along with key government officials, attended the signing of this law, which is a priority initiative of the Marcos Administration.

The SRDP Program emphasizes research and development, prioritizing innovations and technological advancements within the defense sector, including dual-use technologies.

The law aims to enhance the AFP’s capabilities across both traditional and non-traditional domains, ultimately facilitating the establishment of a credible defense posture and self-reliance.

By fostering the development of a national defense industry, the law seeks to leverage local enterprises through collaborative partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) from allied countries willing to support technology transfer.

This initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening the country’s defense infrastructure and ensuring that the Philippines can independently support its security needs. (JCO/PIA-NCR)