THE BUDGET for the increase in the daily subsistence allowance of soldiers has been secured and would be implemented as planned, a House leader said on Wednesday, belying claims that the government has rejected the increase.
“This is a budol (lie), a big lie! These false claims deceive our soldiers and undermine their trust in the government. But the truth is clear - this increase is funded, secured, and guaranteed under the 2025 budget," Deputy Speaker and Quezon Rep. David Suarez said in a news release.
Suarez said disinformation undermines trust in the administration and disrespects uniformed personnel.
He emphasized that administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains resolute in ensuring both the welfare of soldiers and the fight against misinformation.
Suarez also noted that Speaker Martin Romualdez, following the President's directive, pushed for the increase from PHP150 to PHP350 per day, or PHP10,500 monthly, in this year’s national budget.
“We won’t let lies undermine our soldiers. The funding is secured, the commitment is strong, and they will get what they deserve,” Suarez said.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) refuted the misleading claims, affirming that the allowance increase is in the budget and will be implemented accordingly.
Suarez called on Filipinos to verify information obtained online before sharing, emphasizing that spreading falsehoods disrespects the sacrifices of the country’s troops.
“Enough of this budol! Our soldiers risk their lives every day. They deserve respect, not lies meant to confuse and demoralize them,” he said.
The lawmaker assured the public that the budget is intact and that soldiers will receive their rightful benefits.
“The budget is there. The law is clear. The funding is secured. This will be implemented – no amount of fake news can change that,” Suarez said. (Filane Mikee Cervantes)
