The Philippine government has announced a major increase in financial support for members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) starting in 2025. This includes a significant raise in the soldiers’ daily subsistence allowance, going from PHP150 to PHP350 per day. This move is part of a larger effort to improve the quality of life for the country’s military personnel and is included in the 2025 national budget.
This development was led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who emphasized the need to support the AFP as they continue their duty to protect the nation. The announcement was made during a special fellowship event at the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales, attended by top government and military officials. The event highlighted the government’s firm commitment to strengthening the AFP through better pay and improved benefits.
The government has allocated a total of PHP15 billion specifically for the welfare of AFP members. This includes not only the increase in daily allowance but also better medical support, improved pension for retirees, and more programs for long-term welfare. The new measures aim to help AFP personnel with their everyday needs, healthcare, and future security, while also improving morale and operational readiness across the military.
Big Raise in Daily Allowance for AFP Members
The most important change in the new budget is the increase in the Daily Subsistence Allowance. This allowance is used by soldiers to cover food and other daily needs. From PHP150 per day, it will now go up to PHP350 per day, giving each soldier an extra PHP200 daily.
This raise is meant to help AFP members cope with the rising cost of living. Prices of basic goods, food, and transportation have increased over time, and this allowance hike helps ensure that soldiers can meet their basic needs without financial stress.
Breakdown of PHP15 Billion AFP Budget
The government has clearly outlined how the PHP15 billion funding will be spent to support different areas of the AFP’s needs. The goal is to make sure all personnel—from active soldiers to retirees—receive proper financial aid.
Here’s how the budget is divided:
- PHP10 billion is assigned for the increase in daily subsistence allowances.
- PHP3 billion is dedicated to improved medical services, health plans, and support for AFP healthcare needs.
- PHP2 billion is set aside for better pensions for retired personnel and for logistical improvements.
This budget structure ensures that soldiers and veterans are not left behind and that every peso is used to improve their living and working conditions.
Direct Benefits for AFP Soldiers and Families
Financial Relief for Active Soldiers
The increased allowance gives AFP members more financial freedom. It helps them buy food, pay for transport, and cover other daily expenses without borrowing money or cutting down on necessities.
Better Access to Medical Care
Medical allowance is also going up. Soldiers will now receive PHP7,000 per month, up from PHP5,000. This will help cover costs for medicine, hospital check-ups, treatment, and medical emergencies. Better health means better performance in the field.
Pension Upgrade for Retirees
Retired AFP personnel will now receive PHP1,000 monthly pension, up from PHP900. Though the amount seems small, it is a positive step toward recognizing their years of service and providing them with better retirement support.
Higher Morale, Stronger Focus
With better financial and medical support, soldiers can focus more on their mission. Reducing their financial worries leads to better job satisfaction, stronger morale, and improved readiness in the field.
Helping the Country and the Local Economy
This new budget is not just about the soldiers—it also helps the entire country. With more money in the hands of AFP members, there will be more spending in local markets, especially around military camps and communities.
Small businesses near these camps will benefit as soldiers spend more on food, goods, and services. This helps grow local economies and provides job opportunities to nearby residents. At the same time, soldiers with better living conditions are more effective in defending the country, making the Philippines safer and more stable.
Future Plans for AFP Support and Development
The government’s support does not end with just an allowance increase. There are many other welfare programs being planned to further improve AFP support systems in the coming years. These include:
- Mental Health Assistance – Programs to help soldiers deal with stress, trauma, and emotional struggles caused by difficult field duties.
- Technology and Equipment Upgrade – Investing in modern tools, protective gear, and systems to improve AFP’s performance and safety.
- Affordable Housing Projects – Plans to offer housing for AFP families close to their place of work.
- Scholarship and Education Aid – Providing education support and scholarships for children of AFP members, giving families better opportunities.
These programs are part of a long-term plan to build a modern and well-supported military force in the Philippines.