President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday announced a multi-year increase in the base pay of military and uniformed personnel (MUP), a week after securing the continued support of key military officials amid rumors of destabilization.
In a video message posted on his social media accounts, Marcos said the salary hike will be implemented in three tranches—on January 1 of 2026, 2027, and 2028.
“Naniniwala ang administrasyong ito na ang mga nagtatanggol sa bayan ay nararapat ring protektahan ng pamahalaan,” the President said, citing the troops’ role in disaster response and relief operations during recent calamities.
“Makatarungang sahod at sapat na suporta, ito ang handog ng sambayanan sa ating mga tagapagtanggol,” he added. “Bilang pagkilala sa inyong walang sawang paglilingkod, dedikasyon, at husay, ating itataas ang base pay ng MUP.”
The increase will cover personnel under the following agencies:
- Department of National Defense
- Department of the Interior and Local Government
- Philippine Coast Guard
- Bureau of Corrections
- National Mapping and Resource Information Authority
The announcement comes weeks after discussions of a supposed “military reset” circulated amid corruption issues in several government agencies—claims that defense and civilian authorities have repeatedly denied.
Earlier this year, Marcos also approved raising the military’s daily subsistence allowance to ₱350.
AFP, PNP welcome move
Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the AFP “welcomes” the President’s directive, calling it a gesture of the administration’s recognition of the sacrifices of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines.
“This support will not only uplift the morale of our troops but also strengthen our commitment to perform our duties with professionalism, integrity, and faithful service to the nation,” Padilla said.
The Philippine National Police also expressed its appreciation. Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Marcos’s continued trust inspires uniformed personnel to carry out their duties.
“His message gives renewed motivation to our personnel who carry out their duties each day to help keep our communities secure,” Nartatez said.
He added that the PNP welcomes the administration’s plan to enhance benefits, including adjustments in base pay and improvements to subsistence allowance.
“This gesture is deeply appreciated across the organization, as it reflects the government’s recognition of the daily risks and responsibilities carried by our personnel,” he said.
Nartatez affirmed the PNP’s commitment to the public, saying the police force remains aligned with national goals on peace and order.
“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 said.
