AFP lauds Duterte for hike in base pay

The entire Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed its gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte for authorizing the increase of the base pay of all troops. (Photo: Armed Forces of the Philippines/Facebook)

MANILA — Stressing that military personnel are committed in fulfilling their sworn duties with or without any salary increase, the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) expressed its gratitude to President Rodrigo Duterte for authorizing the increase of the base pay of all troops.

“Our soldiers are grateful to our Commander-in-Chief and President Rodrigo Duterte for his recognition of the sacrifices and the hazards the military service entails and his concern for the welfare of uniformed members of the AFP and their families,” AFP spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo said late Wednesday.

The pay increase for all AFP personnel was contained under Congress’ Joint Resolution No. 1, which was signed by the Chief Executive last January 1.

“We understand the prevailing economic realities that have been considered in the crafting of the pay schedule,” he added. “With or without the pay increase, our soldiers shall remain committed to our sworn duties to the Filipino nation and its people,” Arevalo added.

Meanwhile, in regards to the suspension of indexation of pension to base pay, the AFP spokesperson said they respect the decision of the President and Congress in this matter.

“The AFP respects the decision of Congress and the President to suspend the indexation of the new Base Pay to the pension of retired AFP personnel, pending further study by the Legislative and Executive branches of government ,” he added.