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Philippine Military Clarifies: No Plans to Remove Pensions for Retired Personnel
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has firmly denied circulating claims that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. plans to strip retired military personnel of their pensions, calling such allegations “baseless, malicious, and intended to mislead” the public.
The controversy erupted after social media posts began spreading allegations that Marcos was threatening to revoke the pensions of retired AFP personnel, particularly those critical of his administration or aligned with former President Rodrigo Duterte.
One widely-shared Facebook post from October 20 featured a graphic with Marcos’s photo and text stating, “BREAKING NEWS: Retired officials warned that their pensions would be removed?” The post’s caption claimed, “Remove the pension of soldiers, that’s what [Bongbong Marcos] wants.”
Similar claims have proliferated across Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, with some posts featuring inflammatory language suggesting Marcos was “looking for trouble” by allegedly targeting military pensions. These posts gained traction following a statement by Cavite 4th District Representative Kiko Barzaga, a known Marcos critic, who made similar allegations on October 18.
In response, the AFP issued a categorical denial on October 18, emphasizing that there is no such directive, statement, or policy from either the President or any government agency. The military’s statement highlighted that the Marcos administration has “consistently expressed its fullest support for our men and women in uniform, including the protection and sustainability of their pension and benefits.”
The AFP clarified that military pensions are legally protected under Republic Act No. 11709 and Presidential Decree No. 1638. These benefits are earned after at least 20 years of service and can only be forfeited if a retiree is convicted of a crime following due process and a final judgment from a competent court. “No official can arbitrarily remove or withhold such pension,” the AFP statement emphasized.
The confusion appears to have stemmed from recent statements by AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, who mentioned that the military was reviewing its pension system and considering potential sanctions against retired officers allegedly spreading disinformation or making seditious statements. This came after reports that some retired officers had urged active military personnel to withdraw support from Marcos during the September 21 anti-corruption protests.
Padilla later clarified that the review of the pension system was still “a work in progress” and aimed at ensuring the system is “fair, fairly administered, and does not violate the law or undermine public confidence in the Philippine Armed Forces.” She stressed that the AFP’s statements should not be interpreted as warnings meant to restrict freedom of speech.
Military chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. had previously acknowledged that some retired officers had attempted to persuade the AFP to withdraw support from the President during recent flood control protests. Brawner reaffirmed the military’s loyalty to the administration and dismissed rumors of ouster plots against Marcos.
Malacañang has remained relatively distant from the controversy, with Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stating that it is up to the AFP to address the pension issue. According to Castro, President Marcos has not yet issued any statement on the matter.
The spread of these false claims highlights ongoing political tensions in the Philippines, where social media has become a battleground for information and misinformation alike, particularly on issues related to military loyalty and government policies.
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16 Comments
The military’s denial of these allegations is a welcome clarification. Pension security is a critical issue, and it’s important to ensure that misinformation doesn’t undermine trust in the system.
Absolutely. The AFP’s swift response helps to counter the spread of false narratives and maintain confidence in the government’s treatment of retired military personnel.
I’m glad the military has come out to refute these claims. Pension benefits for retired personnel should be protected, and it’s concerning to see such allegations circulating online.
Yes, the military’s response helps to counter the misinformation and restore confidence in the government’s treatment of retired personnel. Transparency is key in these matters.
Interesting to see the military clarifying the situation. It’s important to verify claims before spreading misinformation, especially when it involves sensitive issues like military pensions.
I agree, fact-checking is crucial to avoid the spread of misleading or false information. The military’s response helps provide clarity on this issue.
Kudos to the AFP for swiftly addressing these allegations. Maintaining the integrity of military pension programs is crucial for morale and recruitment.
Absolutely. The military’s decisive response shows their commitment to protecting the rights and benefits of those who have served their country.
This is an important issue that deserves careful consideration. I’m glad to see the military taking a firm stance against the spread of misinformation on this topic.
Yes, the military’s clear message helps to counter the false narratives and restore confidence in the government’s handling of pension programs for retired personnel.
This seems like a politically-charged issue, but it’s good to hear the military’s stance. Pensions for retired personnel are an important benefit that shouldn’t be compromised without due process.
Absolutely, military pensions are a critical part of the compensation and benefits package for those who have served their country. Maintaining trust in these systems is vital.
It’s concerning to see these types of allegations circulating, but I’m reassured by the military’s swift response. Protecting pension benefits for retired personnel should be a priority.
I agree. The military’s proactive stance in addressing these claims demonstrates their commitment to transparency and accountability on this sensitive issue.
It’s good to see the AFP taking a strong stance against these false claims. Pension security is a sensitive issue, and the military’s prompt clarification is reassuring.
I agree. The military’s prompt action to address these allegations helps maintain trust in the system and ensures fair treatment of retired personnel.