A.

Elucidation of circumstances

The Philippine Constitution's Article II, Section 2 is a domestic law that has

been incorporated into international law. By virtue of its mere constitutional

declaration, it provides a principled, transformative, and strategic framework for the

nation to pursue the three pillars of Philippine Foreign Policy as a means of advancing

the Philippine National Interests and well-being in the International Arena.

Understanding the intricacies of the nation's security landscape, this pillar which is

the Preservation and enhancement of national security, as our President emphasized

in his speech, where he also affirmed that the Philippines "shall continue to be friend

to all and enemy to none" and that differences can only be settled on peaceful means

by stabilizing international law. The preservation and enhancement of our national

security must be our top priority in the current context of global conflicts. The

significance of taking the initiative to protect our territorial integrity and advance

regional stability, where people chose survival, cooperation and peace on dealing

with other countries or any conflicts, as the Republic Act No. 9372 known as “Human

Security Act of 2007.” reflect to the goals of our administration encouraging us to

reject the use of force as a means of settling conflicts but at the same time ensuring

that our Human Security comes first at all time. Since it aims to secure the state and

protect its people from terrorism, which is seen as a threat to national security.

B. Discussion of policy options

 The "Human Security Act of 2007" (Republic Act No. 9372) Section 2 It is

declared a policy of the State to protect life, liberty, and property from acts of

terrorism, to condemn terrorism as inimical and dangerous to the national security of

the country and to the welfare of the people, and to make terrorism a crime against

the Filipino people, against humanity, and against the law of nations. This policy is a

significant piece of legislation in the Philippines that aims to safeguard and

strengthen national security by tackling the threat posed by terrorism and

guaranteeing the rule of law and human rights. This act establishes legal barriers to

prevent and discourage terrorist activities in the Philippines. It defines terrorism and

lays down the consequences for anyone who assists in organizing, funding, or carrying

out terrorist activities. The act helps protect the nation from threats that could

jeopardize its stability and security by making terrorism illegal and strengthening law

enforcement agencies with the means to face it. In Section 24 of this act emphasize

that there will be “No Torture or Coercion in Investigation and Interrogation”, It

enforces protections such judicial supervision, respect for due process, and the ban

on torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. These clauses are

necessary to protect the values of democracy and justice as well as the credibility of

counterterrorism initiatives. This act at the same time respects human rights and

safeguards to preserve the rule of law, even though its primary goal is to combat

terrorism. Which is a policy that preserves and enhances national security.

C. Basis/criteria for judging policy options

 The Philippines National Security Policy (NSP) 2023–2028 demonstrates the

present administration the dedication to addressing both conventional and

unconventional security threats head-on while promoting an atmosphere that supports

their continuous development. In addition to offering a reliable evaluation of the

opportunities and risks that confront by our country today and in the future, it also

offers a well-organized plan for achieving our objectives in light of their personnel,

resources, and circumstances. On the Chapter 3 which is the “NATIONAL SECURITY

INTERESTS AND GOALS” where it was stated that, The Philippines shall ensure the

inviolability of its national territory, including land, seas, air, space, and cyberspace.

The policies to promote this interest demand strategic measures, legislation, and

programs that would improve, enhance, and strengthen national sovereignty. And

pursuant to the "Human Security Act of 2007" (Republic Act No. 9372) Section 3

provides the framework to the National Security Policy as it forms the basis for the

identification and prosecution of individuals or groups engaged in terrorism-related

activities. One of the pillars of Philippine foreign policy is to ensure the preservation

and enhancement of national security, and this is the most effective solution or best

policy in accordance with this objective (pillar) because it is connected to the

national security policy.

D. Policy Recommendation

Article II Section 2 of the Philippine Constitution, Republic Act No. 9372, also

known as the "Human Security Act of 2007," and the National Security Policy (NSP)

2023–2028. First and foremost, because these are well-established laws/policies, the
Philippine government must ensure that they are strictly enforced, regularly monitor

and assess how the national security strategy is being implemented, and take action

in response to threats that arise and circumstances that alter. In order to preserve

and enhance national security in the Philippines, Secondly, my policy

recommendation is that, there should be a law, policy, or presidential decree

requiring the government, particularly the executive branch, to set reserve adequate

funds and resources for critical security initiatives like disaster resilience programs,

defense modernization, and counterterrorism efforts. This is because the weaponry

and manpower in the Philippine Military is weaker and is not that advance(modernize)

unlike in other nations/countries. Last but not least, the government must prioritize

the safety of its citizens and make sure they strengthen their ability for disaster

preparedness in order to lessen the impact that natural disasters and humanitarian

crises will have on national security. This goes beyond just focusing on what it does in

the wake of terrorist attacks or other human rights violations, military operations, or

international disputes. To increase the nation's resilience and capacity to handle

calamities, invest in early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, and training

programs. There should be legislation requiring all households to participate in

government-sponsored programs or activities that address disaster preparedness for

both natural and man-made disasters.