Executive Secretary Ralph Recto warned that governance and institutional issues, including corruption and lack of transparency, pose serious risks to national security. He cited the misuse of public funds as a critical concern.
“This is why we are pushing for good governance reforms—finally pursuing an anti-political dynasty bill, reforming the party list system, and giving public access to government expenditures,” Recto said Friday at the National Security Summit 2025 in Taguig City.
“For building stronger and more transparent institutions is the nation’s sturdiest security defense,” he added.
Recto emphasized that human security—covering food, utilities, and employment—is central to protecting the nation. He noted that key focus areas include food security, universal healthcare, quality education, and workforce development.
“It is food that is affordable. Power that stays on. A job that pays enough. Truth in our newsfeeds. Trust in our institutions… Because security is more than the absence of a shooting war. It means the presence of opportunity,” he said.
Recto also stressed the need for strategic coordination across sectors and commended the National Security Council for aligning the 2024 National Security Strategy with the Philippine Development Plan.