The administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is making a significant investment in the country's security forces, with a major budget allocation for new hires and salary increases set for 2026.
Billions Pledged for New Hires and Higher Pay
Malacañang announced on Wednesday that the government has set aside more than PHP4 billion to fund the creation of over 10,000 new positions for military and uniformed personnel (MUP) next year. This move is part of a broader effort to strengthen public safety and national defense.
Simultaneously, the state has allocated the first tranche of base pay increases, amounting to a substantial PHP21.7 billion. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the welfare of soldiers, police officers, and other uniformed personnel remains a top priority for President Marcos.
Details of the 2026 Budget Allocations
Acting Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo provided a breakdown of the funding. A total of PHP4.06 billion is specifically earmarked for 10,077 additional MUP positions across various agencies. The distribution of these new posts is as follows:
- 1,358 for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
- 2,000 for the Philippine National Police (PNP)
- 2,000 for the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)
- 2,000 for the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)
- 1,000 for the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor)
- 1,790 for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)
Secretary Toledo stressed that "These positions are not just numbers. They are additional hands, strength, and protection for the nation."
Sustained Support for Personnel Welfare
Beyond new recruitment, the government is continuing its commitment to improving the compensation of existing personnel. The first phase of base pay hikes, authorized under Executive Order No. 107, will commence this year.
Furthermore, the daily subsistence allowance for MUPs will see an increase to PHP350, effective January 1, 2026. To ensure the long-term viability of this and other benefits, a total allocation of PHP71.1 billion has been backed in the budget.
Press Officer Castro framed these financial adjustments as a gesture of gratitude from the President, stating they are part of his recognition of the "heroism and sacrifices for the nation" made by military and uniformed personnel. The proposed 2026 national budget, according to officials, sends a clear and unequivocal message of support to the country's uniformed services.
