President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has given his official approval for a significant increase in the base pay of the country's military and uniformed personnel (MUPs). The move, which has been warmly welcomed by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), is seen as a major boost for troop welfare and morale.
Gratitude from the Frontlines
In an official statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines expressed its profound gratitude to President Marcos for prioritizing the well-being of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines. The AFP stated that this meaningful support serves as a powerful reminder of the trust given to them by both the government and the Filipino people.
"With renewed support, we assure the public that this directive will be implemented efficiently as we stand guard for the safety and security of our country," the AFP added. The organization reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to defending the nation with integrity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication.
Echoing this sentiment, the Philippine National Police also extended its thanks. PNP acting chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the gesture is deeply appreciated across the entire police force. He emphasized that it reflects the government's recognition of the daily risks and heavy responsibilities shouldered by police personnel in their mission to keep communities secure.
Details of the Salary Increase
The pay hike is mandated under Executive Order 107, which President Marcos signed on December 4, 2025. The increase will not be implemented all at once but will be rolled out in a structured, three-tranche schedule to ensure smooth execution.
The scheduled implementation dates are:
- January 1, 2026
- January 1, 2027
- January 1, 2028
This salary adjustment covers a wide range of uniformed personnel under several key government agencies. The beneficiaries include those from the Department of National Defense, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Bureau of Corrections, and the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority.
Enhanced Subsistence Allowance
Beyond the base pay increase, the executive order also provides additional financial relief for daily needs. Starting January 1, 2026, the daily subsistence allowance for all MUPs will be raised to 350 pesos per day. This increase in allowance is designed to help offset daily living expenses and further support the personnel's overall welfare.
Lieutenant General Nartatez affirmed that the PNP remains fully aligned with the national government's goals of strengthening peace and security. "We will continue to uphold our mandate with professionalism and respect for the rights and dignity of every Filipino, and we will stay prepared and responsive as new challenges emerge," he stated.
This comprehensive compensation package marks a significant policy move by the Marcos administration, directly impacting the lives of thousands of uniformed personnel who are tasked with ensuring the nation's security and stability.
