Question & AnswerQ&A (PVAO DEPARTMENT ORDER NO. A-049)
The State fosters the socio-economic security and general well-being of military veterans in recognition of their patriotic services in times of war and peace, for national unity, independence, socio-economic advancement, and maintenance of peace and order.
A veteran is any person who rendered honorable military service in the Philippine armed forces during various historical wars and campaigns or has been honorably discharged after at least six years of active service or due to death or disability related to military service.
Dependents include the veteran's legal spouse, child, or parent who is wholly under the care and support of the veteran.
Application for benefits and compensation granted under R.A. 6948 shall not prescribe except as otherwise provided in the Rules.
Applications shall be filed with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), except disability pensions of military personnel which are filed with the General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines for processing before transmission to PVAO.
No fee or compensation shall be charged any veteran or beneficiary for any official services or transactions related to claims under these Rules unless expressly authorized by the Administrator.
Documents like original appointment or induction papers, military orders, pay vouchers, service records, affidavits, and other official records depending on the veteran's specific war or campaign service.
Eligible veterans and their dependents who have not enjoyed educational benefits before may be admitted to government-authorized institutions with all school fees paid by the government, subject to certain rules on eligibility, period of entitlement, course changes, extensions, and refunds.
Disability pensions range from P600 to P1,125 monthly depending on disability rating from 10% to 100%, plus additional amounts for legal spouse and unmarried minor children if the disability is total.
Surviving spouses, unmarried minor children, and indigent parents of veterans who died in line of duty or as a result of military service may receive monthly pensions ranging from P250 to P500 depending on relationship and conditions.
A criminal conviction after discharge does not bar benefits unless it is for gross human rights violations certified by the Commission on Human Rights; benefits may continue for next of kin.
Veterans, military retirees, disabled veterans and their dependents are entitled to hospitalization, medical care, and treatment in Veterans Medical Center or designated facilities, with rules on priority of admission, payment, and contracting hospitals.
No, pensions are exempt from income tax, attachment, execution, forfeiture, or retention by legal or equitable proceedings, ensuring full receipt by the beneficiary.
Applicants committing fraud will have their claims disapproved or benefits voided, forfeiting current and future benefits, and may be penalized with fines up to P2,000, imprisonment up to six months, or both, plus refund of payments.