Castro says Marcos’ support of military part of his duty

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Friday said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent visit to military camps and the newly announced increase in the base pay of military and uniformed personnel should not be questioned, as these are part of his duty as commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

At a briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro was asked whether Marcos’ activities and statements were meant to show support for the military amid calls for it to withdraw its support for the administration.

READ: Marcos announces base pay hike for military, uniformed personnel

“As long as the President has the time, this should not be questioned. Visiting our soldiers and uniformed personnel is appropriate for the Commander-in-Chief. So, this has nothing to do with whatever issues may exist now; it is the President’s obligation to visit them,” she said in FIlipino.

The Palace official maintained that recognition of the contributions of military and uniformed personnel to society should not be affected by political noise.

On Thursday, Marcos visited the Eastern Mindanao Command at Camp Panacan in Davao City, where officials reported on the peace and order situation as well as the state of internal and external security in the region.

On December 3, Marcos also announced an increase in the base pay of military and uniformed personnel, to be implemented in three tranches beginning in 2026.

He likewise ordered a review of the Complete Disability Discharge policy for military personnel to allow them to remain in service despite disabilities sustained while on duty. /mr