MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday refuted what it described as “malicious disinformation” circulating online that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. plans to abolish the military pension system, warning that such claims aim to sow distrust within the ranks.
“This claim is baseless, malicious, and intended to mislead,” the AFP said in a statement, emphasizing that “no directive, statement, or policy has ever been issued by the President — or any other government body — calling for the abolition of military pensions.”
The military stressed that the Marcos administration has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to protect the welfare of uniformed personnel, particularly the “sustainability of their pension and benefits.”
According to the AFP, retirement pay and benefits are guaranteed by law as “earned benefits” following at least 20 years of faithful and honorable service.
These, it said, “cannot be taken away on a whim” and may only be forfeited if a retired service member is found guilty of a crime through due process and final judgment.
The AFP also rebuked Cavite 4th District’s Cong. Kiko Barzaga for allegedly spreading false information that could undermine troop morale and public trust.
“Disseminating false claims that sow division and erode public trust is unbecoming of a government official,” the statement read.
Barzaga, who has been among the administration’s most outspoken critics, recently urged Marcos to resign, claiming discontent within the military.
Reaffirming its loyalty to the Constitution and the Filipino people, the AFP assured that it remains steadfast in its duty to serve “with honor, integrity, and patriotism.”/PN
