P4.7 billion for the widows, veterans and retired soldiers

IN his speech during the ceremony for National Heroes' Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, President Rodrigo R. Duterte has announced that he will release a total of P4.7 billion for the widows of Philippine soldiers and World War II veterans and retired soldiers.

"For those who were not paid by the previous administration, for release is P4.7 billion for the payment of the total administrative liability, arrears of widows and deceased World War II veterans and AFP [Armed Forces of the Philippines] retirees who are 80 years old and above,"Duterte said on Monday.


The audience immediately responded with cheers and applause.

Photo by: Philstar

Of the P4.7 billion, P3.5 billion will go to the widows while P1.2 billion will go to AFP retirees.

"It will be released as soon as possible," the President said.

Duterte added that Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana has already inked the joint Implementing Rules and Regulations facilitating the release.

Lorenzana said in a report that the release will be processed by Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) and General Headquarters (GHQ).

Apart from these funds, Duterte said he would also give P250,000 for every soldier who dies in action during his leadership. AJRSP

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