MANILA, Philippines — Following the celebration of the Day of Valor, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed government agencies to expedite the release of benefits for the families of uniformed personnel killed in action, citing long-standing delays and red tape.

The order came during a ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo commemorating Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), where the President also distributed housing certificates from the National Housing Authority (NHA) and financial assistance to families of fallen soldiers and members of the Citizen Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU).

“Kung tayo ay nagbibigay ng dangal sa ating mga nasawi na mga kasama, ay kailangan ay ang ating pangako sa kanila… ang inyong mga pamilya ay aalagaan natin,” Marcos said.

He acknowledged mounting complaints over the slow and complicated process of claiming benefits, and assured affected families that change is coming.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa inyong paghihintay, pero ngayong araw na ito, masasabi ko, maibibigay na namin lahat ng hinihintay ninyo na napakatagal,” the President said, promising that the distribution of delayed benefits would start immediately.

He emphasized that ensuring families receive what is due them should be treated as a matter of urgency.

The Araw ng Kagitingan is a national holiday that honors the bravery of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II.