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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Base pay hike for MUP not a 'bribe,' says DND

Base pay hike for MUP not a 'bribe,' says DND

Published Dec 5, 2025 02:24 pm
Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong (File photo: DND)
Department of National Defense (DND) spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong (File photo: DND)
The Department of National Defense (DND) on Friday, Dec. 5, dismissed allegations that President Marcos Jr.’s recent directive to increase the base pay for military and uniformed personnel (MUP) could be perceived as a “bribe” amid destabilization rumors against his administration.
DND spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong addressed criticisms from labor and teachers’ groups questioning why uniformed personnel received priority over civilian workers.
“Why would they think this is a bribe? This is for our soldiers. Their work is very difficult. I don’t understand those who are saying such things. Think about what you’re actually saying. Where is our concern for those who defend our people and our sovereignty?” Andolong said.
The defense spokesperson said the increase is a “long overdue” measure although he noted that the Department fully supports any policy review that led to the adjustment.
“We are in the process of preparing for the implementation of a policy review but the President has already ordered the creation of a technical working group,” Andolong said. “Of course, we will support this particular policy review.”
He cited President Marcos Jr.’s stance that the pay hike is reflective of the demanding nature of military service.
“This is our view at the Department of National Defense as well. Our men and women in uniform deserve this increase, especially considering the risks and challenges of their work compared to previous years,” he said.
Last Wednesday, Marcos announced an increase in the base pay for all MUP which will be released in three tranches: January 1, 2026, 2027, and 2028.
He issued Executive Order 107 which also increases the subsistence allowance for MUP covering the Department of National Defense (DND), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA).
However, the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) criticized Marcos’ decision, saying it sidelines teachers and civilian workers.
ACT Chairperson Ruby Bernardo called the move “politically motivated” amid coup and destabilization rumors hound the Marcos administration, and questioned the rationale given budget constraints and ongoing public service issues.
She urged redirecting funds toward education, health, and other essential services.
The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) also echoed the ACT's concerns, saying that if Marcos can implement a base pay increase for MUP, he can also do it for civilian workers to avoid "double standards."

Related Tags

DND bribe bae pay increase MUP military Arsenio Andolong
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