SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez gave credit Wednesday to the Philippine Marine Corps’ Force Reconnaissance Group, whose 51-year presence has given Filipinos priceless peace of mind as security forces battle all kinds of terrorism.
“You have embodied the very spirit of dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment. It is not an exaggeration to say that the peace and security we enjoy today is largely due to your tireless efforts,” Speaker Romualdez said in commemoration rites held in Ternate, Cavite for its 51st founding anniversary. In a speech delivered at Camp Gregorio Lim, Romualdez, the leader of the 312-strong House of Representatives, also commended the soldiers’ “relentless pursuit of excellence, your mastery of both land and sea, and your commitment to preserving the core values of honor, duty, and loyalty set you apart.”
“In this rapidly changing global landscape, where new threats emerge as swiftly as the old ones fade, it is units like the Force Reconnaissance Group that stand as our nation’s shield,” Romualdez, who was guest of honor and keynote speaker, added.
The administration stalwart and president of the ruling Lakas-CMD party at the same time paid homage to their noble and valiant Marine members who have offered their lives in order to achieve peace in the entire country.
“We remember those who have paid the ultimate price, those whose stories of bravery and sacrifice inspire countless others to serve with honor. Their memories remind us that freedom is not free,” the Speaker asserted.
“It comes at a cost, and that cost is borne by the gallant men and women of our armed forces,” he said.
Romualdez then gave them the good news about how Congress is working to fix the problems besetting the pension system for the Military and Uniformed Personnel, and how much reform has been made to make lives better for both active and retired military personnel. “I am proud to announce that the efforts of the House Ad Hoc Committee on the MUP Pension System have borne fruit,” he said, adding they can now sleep soundly at night knowing fully well that pensions are fully funded and that the accompanying salary hikes are guaranteed yearly.
Among the key MUP reforms include: 1. A 90 percent maximum retirement package based on base pay for all MUP, an increase from the previous package of 85 percent for our AFP personnel. 2. The inclusion of PNP personnel who have served less than 20 years, ensuring they too are eligible for a separation lump sum. 3. An annual guaranteed salary increase of three (3) percent for all our MUP. 5. Introducing two separate pension management systems: one dedicated for AFP and another for civilian uniformed personnel. 6. Setting a five (5) percent contribution from MUP, complemented by a generous 12 percent contribution from our government. 8. And importantly, the establishment of a special window in the pension fund system for our disadvantaged pensioners, ensuring that they are not left behind. “This revamped pension system underscores our unwavering commitment to the brave men and women in uniform. It not only provides financial security but also recognizes their boundless dedication and service to our nation,” the Speaker stressed.
