Pia Lee-Brago – The Philippine Star
October 20, 2025 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines belied the spread of what it described as false and misleading information on social media claiming that President Marcos had threatened to remove AFP pensions.
The AFP said the claim about the removal of military retirement benefits is baseless, malicious and intended to mislead.
“The AFP categorically states that there is no such directive, statement or policy from the President or any government agency,” the AFP said in a statement.
“On the contrary, the administration has consistently expressed its fullest support for our men and women in uniform, including the protection and sustainability of their pension and benefits,” it said.
According to the AFP, the pension of a retired military personnel is protected under existing laws. It is considered an earned benefit resulting from at least 20 years of faithful, honorable and dedicated service to the nation.
Under the law, a retired soldier’s pension may only be forfeited if he or she is convicted of a crime, following due process and a final judgment of a competent court. No official can arbitrarily remove or withhold such pension.
The AFP also called on Cavite 4th District Rep. Francisco Barzaga to “refrain from spreading disinformation that undermines public confidence and the morale of the very men and women who defend our Republic.”
Labor coalition NAGKAISA yesterday denounced the reported threat to remove or suspend the pension of military retireees who support anti-corruption efforts. — Mayen Jaymalin