THE House of Representatives terminated on Wednesday the period of interpellation on the proposed P27.4 billion budget of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and its attached agencies for fiscal year 2025.
DFA budget sponsors Nueva Ecija Rep. Joseph Gilbert Violago and Manila Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. defended the proposed budget during the plenary proceedings.
Violago reiterated DFA’s mandate to advance the nation’s interest at the global stage, like the West Philippine Sea issue.
“Its work is paramount in preserving and enhancing national security, promoting economic diplomacy, and instrumental in protecting the rights and welfare of Filipinos overseas and in the provision of the much-needed consular services here and abroad,” Violago added.
He noted that the DFA has conducted 47 high-level bilateral meetings with foreign officials in the first half of 2024.
According to Violago, the budget of the DFA shall be used for campaigning for the nation’s bid for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in 2027-2028, for the hosting of the board of the laws and damage fund in preparation for the Philippines chairship in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in 2026, promoting the 2016 arbitral award, retrofitting of the DFA headquarters and for funding the opening of four new foreign service posts.
OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino praised the DFA’s coordination with embassies and consulates and sought clarification on the passport revolving fund.
Violago explained that the fund is used for salaries, allowances, bonuses, and other benefits for employees.
She also addressed concerns over the country’s campaign for a UNSC non-permanent seat, affirming that the DFA is making efforts to secure international support from UN member states for the bid, and the West Philippine Sea (WPS) dispute with China
Violago confirmed reports that DFA is exploring options to file a petition with the UN General Assembly with regards to China’s actions in the WPS and at the same time reinforce the 2016 arbitral ruling.
On the concerns raised by Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas about the legal needs of OFWs involved in criminal cases abroad, Violago assured the House that the DFA has sufficient legal measures in place and will look into specific case
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