The Senate approved a bill on Monday, Jan. 27, granting free legal assistance to military and uniformed personnel (MUP) facing charges related to their official duties.
With 21 affirmative votes, Senate Bill No. 2814, also known as the “Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act,” passed its final third reading.
“We recognize the unique position of our men and women in uniform who swore to protect national security and public order, run after criminals and apprehend lawless elements; unfortunately, the nature of their work exposed them to harassment suits and counter charges – causing them financial stress, anxiety, and demoralization,” Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, sponsor of the measure, said.
The bill ensures free legal aid for personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), and the Hydrography Branch of the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority. Retired or honorably discharged military and uniformed personnel are also eligible for assistance.
Legal aid includes representation in criminal, civil, or administrative cases, legal consultations, preparation of documents, payment of court fees, and notarization. Within 24 hours of receiving charges against MUP, agency heads must assign legal officers to provide assistance.
Service-related cases will be determined by the legal offices of the respective agencies.
“This is a big morale boost in their ranks. As was the case during the period of interpellation, perhaps now they are applauded again with joy,” said Estrada.
“Today, the Senate reaffirmed its full support for their faithful fulfillment of their sworn duties, and we stand by them in every mission and operation. With this, we expect them to be even more relentless in arresting criminals and dismantling syndicates, and demonstrate an even higher level of dedication and commitment to duty without being fearful or intimidated with possible charges that might come their way,” he added.
The bill was introduced by Senators Christopher Go, Estrada, Ronald Dela Rosa, Ramon Revilla Jr., Imee Marcos, Mark Villar, Grace Poe, Raffy Tulfo, and Juan Miguel Zubiri.IMT
