Law Summary
Adjustment of Pay Schedule
- The base pay rates of AFP officers and enlisted personnel are increased according to specific salary grades tied to military rank.
- The ranks from General to Candidate Soldier are assigned salary grades from 30 down to 7.
- Civil Service Commission qualifications do not apply to AFP members.
- A continuing education program for AFP personnel will be formulated in coordination with the CSC.
- Existing benefits under other laws remain in force.
Merit System for AFP Personnel
- The Department of National Defense (DND) shall establish a merit-based system governing selection, transfer, promotion, and dismissal within the AFP.
- The system includes non-cash incentives such as scholarship grants for deserving personnel and their children.
- Scholarships extend to children of prisoners of war, missing in action, and those killed or deceased due to service.
- Other benefits include hospital care and social services aimed at enhancing professionalism and excellence.
Housing Assistance Program
- The DND, together with the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, will implement a specialized housing assistance program.
- The program aims to provide soldiers with structurally sound, affordable, and environmentally safe housing in wholesome communities.
- Assistance amounts are calculated based on rank, geographical location, and family status.
- Families of soldiers killed in battle or deceased due to service are eligible for housing assistance.
Appropriations for Implementation
- Initial funding will come from AFP appropriation savings or other sources determined by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
- Subsequent funding shall be included in the regular AFP appropriations under the annual General Appropriations Act.
Annual Reporting and Salary Review
- The DND and DBM must submit an annual report to the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House regarding the law's implementation.
- The report includes budget application information for salaries and other benefits.
- Salary rates will be reviewed and adjusted every five years considering labor productivity, cost of living indices, oil prices, and other economic indicators with NEDA's input.
Phased Implementation
- The law’s provisions will be implemented in phases over a maximum of two years.
- Any partial implementation must be uniform and proportionate across all ranks.
Implementing Guidelines
- The DBM along with DND/AFP are tasked to issue guidelines necessary for the law's implementation.
Repealing Clause
- All laws, decrees, rules, and regulations inconsistent with this Act are repealed or modified accordingly.
Effectivity
- The law takes effect 15 days after its complete publication in the Official Gazette or two newspapers of general circulation, whichever comes earlier.