Philippine House Proposes $10 Billion for Drone Development for Military and Police Use

Deputy Majority Leader Luigi Villafuerte calls for lawmakers to pass a bill funding drone development for the Philippine military and police, with an initial allocation of P10 billion. The proposal aims to enhance maritime patrols and counterterrorism efforts through the establishment of the Philippine Unmanned Aerial System Program (PUASP) and the Strategic Defense Technology Transfer Program (SDTTP). The bill supports the acquisition and development of drones for various applications, including disaster response and law enforcement.

Published Mar 23, 2026

Deputy Majority Leader Luigi Villafuerte urged the Philippine Congress to pass legislation that would mandate and fund drone development for military and police applications, specifically supporting the Philippine National Police's initiative to enhance maritime patrols. The proposed House Bill 1362 allocates P10 billion for the Philippine Unmanned Aerial System Program (PUASP) and the Strategic Defense Technology Transfer Program (SDTTP), aimed at acquiring drones for surveillance, combat, and disaster response.

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Villafuerte emphasized the potential of drones in modern policing, noting recent successful operations involving drone technology. The bill seeks to establish a local UAS ecosystem and enhance the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the PNP.