The Department of National Defense (DND) said the base pay increase for military and uniformed personnel should not be seen as a bribe. The statement came after critics suggested the move was politically motivated.
Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. approved the increase. He explained that the raise was long overdue, and the department believes troops deserve fair compensation for the difficulty of their work.
Marcos previously said the pay hike had been delayed for years. Andolong agreed, noting that the nature of military duty is demanding. He said the increase aims to support the welfare of service members.
Andolong also urged the public not to attach political intent to the decision. He said the department wants to focus on the needs of the troops rather than react to negative comments.
The DND emphasized that the work of uniformed personnel involves risk and responsibility. The agency said the salary adjustment reflects recognition of those challenges.
Despite criticism, the department maintained that the increase is meant to provide better support to men and women in service. Andolong said they prefer not to give color to allegations raised by critics, adding that the decision stands as a response to overdue compensation issues.
