MANILA — Malacañang said the recent adjustment in the base pay of military and uniformed personnel (MUP) is a demonstration of the government’s recognition of their service and sacrifice.

At a Palace briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s decision to increase military benefits stems from respect for personnel “who risk their lives daily to uphold peace and security across the country.”

“Kung nararapat silang bigyan ng mas magandang ayuda, pagtulong, kailangan din naman nating ibigay dahil ang kanilang sakripisyo sa bayan, buhay ang nakataya sa kanila,” Castro said.

She emphasized that the move is guided by policy considerations rather than political pressures, noting that the President’s regular visits to military camps and interactions with troops reflect his commitment to the welfare, morale, and readiness of the Armed Forces.

“Hanggang may oras ang Pangulo, hindi ito dapat kinukuwestiyon. Ang pagbisita sa ating mga kasundaluhan, sa mga uniformed personnel ay nararapat lamang bilang Commander-in-Chief. So, wala itong kinalaman kung mayroon mang isyu ngayon, obligasyon ng Pangulo na bisitahin sila,” Castro added.

The pay adjustment was issued under Executive Order 107, which updates the base pay schedule and raises the daily subsistence allowance to PhP350, effective January 1, 2026. The increase will be implemented in three tranches starting in 2026, 2027, and 2028.

President Marcos recently visited the Eastern Mindanao Command (EASTMINCOM) in Davao City, where he lauded troops for their performance in internal security operations, counterinsurgency, maritime patrols, disaster response, and efforts leading to the continued decline of counterterrorism groups.