AFP denies Binay’s claim on neglect of soldiers

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) denied Vice President Jejomar Binay’s allegations that the Aquino administration has been neglecting soldiers.

In a report by dzMM, AFP public affairs chief Col. Noel Detoyato contradicted Binay’s claims, saying the situation of soldiers has improved and is still improving.

During his “true” state of the nation address (TSONA) last August 1, Binay said the administration of President Benigno Aquino III had neglected the country’s military and police.

“Ang mga haligi ng gobyerno – ang mga karaniwang kawani, ang mga sundalo at ang mga pulis – sila rin ay napag-iwanan,” (The pillars of government – the lowly employee, the soldiers and the police – have also been neglected) Binay said in his speech at the Cavite State University in response to the President’s SONA.

He added, “Ang masaklap pa rito ay binalewala ang kanilang mga sakrispisyo sa ngalan ng serbisyo publiko.” (Worse, their sacrifices in the name of public service have been set aside.)

Belying Binay’s claims, Detoyato reportedly said that the daily subsistence allowance of soldiers and policemen increased to P150 from P90 after Aquino signed a congressional resolution which sought the raise.

Detoyato said the P60-increase was already a big help to soldiers for their daily needs.

Moreover, military supplies and other support for the officers and men of the Armed Forces have improved, Detoyato was reported as saying.

Since the start of Aquino’s term, the AFP has received new weapons and equipment including warships, airplanes, helicopters and armored personnel carriers. Arianne F. Merez, Inquirer.net trainee