Speaker Martin Romualdez on Wednesday assured that Congress is working to fix the problems besetting the pension system for the military and uniformed personnel (MUP).

Romualdez gave the assurance in his message during the 51st Anniversary of Force Reconnaissance Group at the Headquarters of the FRG, Marine Barracks, Camp Gregorio Lim in Ternate Cavite.

Romualdez reported how much reform has been made to make lives better for both active and retired military personnel, highlighting that pensions will be fully funded and that the accompanying salary hikes will be guaranteed yearly under the approved substitute bill.

“I am proud to announce that the efforts of the House Ad Hoc Committee on the MUP Pension System have borne fruit,” he said.

Among the key MUP reforms include: a 90 percent maximum retirement package based on base pay for all MUP, an increase from the previous package of 85 percent for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) personnel; an annual guaranteed salary increase of 3 percent for all MUP; and two separate pension management systems: one dedicated for AFP and another for civilian uniformed personnel.

The bill also proposes that MUPs would be required to contribute 5 percent for the first three years, 7 percent for the next three years and 9 percent thereafter for active personnel while new entrants would contribute 9 percent of their base and longevity pay for their pension.

As a counterpart, the government will chip in 16 percent for the pension of those in active service during the first three years, 14 percent during the fourth to sixth year and 12 percent for the seventh year and onwards.

The government will contribute 12 percent for new entrants.

“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,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez particularly gave credit 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,” Romualdez said.

He 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 said. (PNA)