The Department of National Defense (DND) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have reaffirmed their commitment to the Tatag ng Imprastraktura para sa Kapayapaan at Seguridad (TIKAS) Convergence Program, an ongoing joint initiative between the two executive departments designed to bolster the country’s military infrastructure and ensure the continued maintenance and functioning of a modern and capable Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Launched under the previous administration in 2022 and continued under the current leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s government, the TIKAS Convergence Program aims to provide and maintain state-of-the-art facilities for the AFP, improve the quality of life for its uniformed personnel, and enhance the government’s capacity to respond to the wide breadth of national defense and safety challenges that the country may face. In addition, the program is built to support the administration’s goals of national security, inclusive development, and a “golden age of infrastructure,” as outlined in joint memorandum circulars and DPWH guidelines relating to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. administation’s “Build Better More initiative”.

In recent discussions, the DND and DPWH reiterated their plans to reactivate a technical working group (TWG) that will coordinate and streamline infrastructure projects targeted at enhancing the AFP’s capabilities. The revival of this TWG in line with TIKAS and the discussions to be facilitated by this specific group emphasize the need for consistent dialogue and collaboration between the agencies, especially for the development of plans and preparation of proposals for inclusion in DPWH’s budget for the 2025 fiscal year. Local DPWH regional offices and relevant AFP units will identify potential projects and submit them with complete documentation as required by TIKAS guidelines.

The TIKAS Program has delivered tangible and valuable results in recent years, including improvements to camp administration buildings, military hospitals, and logistics facilities. Beyond improving the daily lives of the country’s uniformed service personnel, these infrastructure projects also serve communities, providing medical services not only to soldiers and their families but also to civilians and even former combatants who have surrendered and have begun to cooperate with the government. Two such facilities constructed through TIKAS are the 7ID Center and the New Grandstand for the Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division (7ID) in Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija. These projects, benefiting the 7ID in their home base, were officially opened in 2023. Speaking at the 2023 inauguration event, 7ID commander Major General Andrew Costelo thanked those involved in the successful completion of the projects.

DND Spokesperson Arsenio Andolong also spoke about the program’s latest developments. “Ang huling mga ginawa ay yung Army General Hospital, inupgrade ‘yan, nagconstruct ng infrastructure, pati yung mga enlisted personnel quarters sa Fort Bonifacio at ibang kampo,” (“The latest that was done was the Army General Hospital, it was upgraded, infrastructure was built, and also the enlisted personnel quarters in Fort Bonifacio and other camps,”) the official said.

Service for service members

Andolong also highlighted the DND’s commitment to the TIKAS Program, and showed appreciation for the current administration’s efforts under their Bagong Pilpinas initiative to provide better care for the Armed Forces. “We’re really trying hard to reach that level wherein magiging world-class na rin ang mga facilities and living conditions ng ating mga kasamahan sa Sandatahang Lakas… ipinapakita ng Pangulo ‘yung kanyang malasakit para sa ating mga tropa na nagbubuwis ng buhay nila, pawis, dugo,” (“We’re really trying hard to reach that level wherein the facilities and living conditions of our compatriots in the Armed Forces will become world-class… the President is showing his concern for our troops who put their lives on the line, their sweat, their blood,”) Andolong shared.

Marcos spoke about a TIKAS-linked project and its current condition earlier in the year. During a visit to Balabac Island in July 2024, the President stated that the new military runway being constructed in the location is near completion. The runway is part of the military and government facilities on the island, which was selected as one of the four new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites in line with the agreement’s revamping and continued development.

Continuity, however, is not without challenges. During a Senate budget hearing in October 2023, Senator Francis Tolentino raised concerns over the program’s reduced funding, from PHP6 billion in 2023 to PHP3.8 billion for 2024. “I think they deserve to have a bigger chunk of the pie, especially in that area (Palawan). This representation would be very interested in knowing the budget given to the province of Palawan (for the TIKAS Program),” Tolentino remarked. His comments underscore the importance of adequately supporting areas of strategic concern, which is a primary function of the program.

In response, both DPWH and DND reaffirmed their commitment to carefully evaluating and prioritizing infrastructure proposals that support AFP modernization and national security interests. Their renewed engagement includes the aforementioned reactivation of subnational technical working groups to identify suitable projects, and coordinating closely for upcoming mutual budget cycles between the departments.

Then-DND Officer-in-Charge and now Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. also assured that the defense sector remains steadfast in supporting DPWH efforts. “The DND will remain committed in supporting DPWH and its project contractors with better protection and unhampered implementation of infrastructure projects in conflict-affected and areas vulnerable to communist terrorist groups,” Galvez said.

An integral pillar of support

The synergy between DND and DPWH aligns with broader national security priorities. Modernized AFP infrastructure strengthens the country’s official and practical defense posture, especially in regions facing maritime disputes and other significant security challenges. By providing improved roads, communication lines, and medical facilities, the TIKAS Program enhances the AFP’s readiness to address emergencies, humanitarian missions, and disaster relief operations.

Moreover, TIKAS embodies a holistic approach to security and development. Upgraded military installations not only ensure robust defense capabilities but also promote stability and peace in nearby communities. The resulting infrastructure improvements contribute to local development, fostering an environment where citizens can thrive and where national interests, including the West Philippine Sea, are better safeguarded.

As the Philippines adapts to emerging defense technologies and confronts both external and internal threats, sustaining the TIKAS Convergence Program remains crucial. By heeding calls for adequate funding, enhancing coordination, and maintaining stakeholder engagement, the DND and DPWH demonstrate a shared commitment to building a more secure, modern, and resilient Philippines.

With the continued drive for modernization, careful planning, and budgetary support, the 2024 iteration of the TIKAS Program is poised to strengthen AFP capabilities, improve living conditions for military personnel, and secure long-term benefits for Filipinos across the nation. (PNA)