DND seeks P295.2B budget for 2026, proposes raising reservist age to 35

The Department of National Defense (DND) is requesting a P295.2 billion budget for 2026, an increase from the current P271.9 billion.

Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro emphasized the need for a "functional replication" of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Reserve Force, moving beyond geographical organization.

He proposed raising the enlistment and commissioning age for reservists from 26 to 35 to attract a wider range of talents, including those with skills in areas like cyber.

Teodoro acknowledged that the current allocation for AFP reserves might be insufficient for training, facilities, infrastructure, and equipment.

He has directed the AFP to restructure its Reserve Command to be functional and capable of replicating General Headquarters duties.

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