President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act No. 12177, or the Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act, showing that his administration “does not leave its defenders behind,” Speaker Martin Romualdez said Thursday.

“This isn’t just about legal defense. It’s about giving peace of mind to ordinary soldiers and cops on the ground,” Romualdez said in a statement.

“It tells them: ‘Just do your job, serve with honor, and we will stand with you all the way’.”

RA 12177 mandates the government to shoulder legal fees and provide comprehensive free legal services to military and uniformed personnel (MUPs) who face civil, criminal or administrative charges concerning the lawful performance of their official duties.

“Sa mga sundalo, pulis, bombero, jail officer, Coast Guard, at iba pang nagsusuot ng uniporme para protektahan ang bansa (To soldiers, policemen, firefighters, jail officers, Coast Guard, and others in uniform who protect the country) —this law is for you,” Romualdez said.

The House leader thanked Marcos for making the measure a priority, noting that it is a testament to the strong partnership between Malacañang and Congress.

“This is how we build a Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) —by strengthening those who serve and making sure government is not just present in ceremonies, but present in their everyday struggles,” Romualdez said.

Covered under the law are active and retired members, as well as honorably separated or discharged personnel of the following: Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Corrections, and the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority’s hydrography branch.

It guarantees free legal representation, legal advice, and assistance with documents like pleadings and motions. It also covers court filing fees and related legal expenses.

Romualdez said this legal aid is part of a broader effort by Congress to support uniformed services with better pay, benefits, housing, education for dependents, and continued modernization of the AFP and PNP. (PNA)