HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Wednesday hailed the signing of Republic Act No. 12177, also known as the Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act, calling it a concrete testament to the Marcos administration’s commitment to those who risk their lives for the nation.
“Sa mga sundalo, pulis, bombero, jail officer, Coast Guard, at iba pang nagsusuot ng uniporme para protektahan ang bansa—this law is for you. When you risk your lives to keep our communities safe, the least we can do is make sure you don’t carry that burden alone when legal challenges arise,” Speaker Romualdez said.
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. The measure was approved by the House as House Bill 6509 on Dec. 12, 2022 and is part of the Common Legislative Agenda.
“This isn’t just about legal defense. It’s about giving peace of mind to ordinary soldiers and cops on the ground. It tells them: ‘Just do your job, serve with honor, and we will stand with you all the way,’” Romualdez emphasized.
Key provisions of RA 12177 include:
• Eligibility: Covers all active, retired, honorably separated or discharged personnel of the following: Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippines National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Corrections and National Mapping and Resource Information Authority Hydrography Branch.
• Scope of Legal Assistance: The law provides free legal representation, legal advice, and the preparation of documents such as pleadings, motions, memoranda, and notarized documents. It also includes the coverage of court filing fees and related legal expenses.
• Determination of Service-Related Cases: Legal assistance is extended only if the charges are related to the lawful discharge of duties. Each agency’s legal office shall determine whether a case qualifies for this support.
• 24-Hour Rule: Upon notification of charges, the head of the agency must act within 24 hours to assign legal officers to provide the necessary assistance.
• Funding: RA 12177 ensures government budget allocation for the implementation of this law, removing financial obstacles that may prevent the MUPs from accessing legal support.
The Speaker said this is only one of the many laws and programs championed by the House of Representatives to uplift the lives of those in the uniformed services and their families.
“Napakarami na pong ginawa ng Kongreso para sa ating mga sundalo at unipormadong hanay,” he added.
Among these House-led efforts:
• Increased pension and retirement benefits through targeted budget measures and legislation;
• Strong support for AFP and PNP housing projects in partnership with Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, ensuring decent homes for military families;
• Budget for the continued modernization of the AFP and police force, covering equipment upgrades and advanced training;
• Educational aid and scholarships for dependents of MUPs who are killed or permanently injured in action;
• Appropriations for hazard pay, combat duty allowances and other financial incentives that reflect the daily dangers faced by uniformed personnel.
“Kung may anak kang sundalo na nagseserbisyo sa malayong lugar, gusto mong malaman na may batas na sisigurong hindi siya babalewalain kung may makaharap siyang problema. RA 12177 gives parents, spouses, and children that assurance,” Romualdez explained.
He thanked President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for prioritizing the measure, saying its passage reflects the solid and active partnership between Malacañang and Congress.
“This is how we build a Bagong Pilipinas—by strengthening those who serve and making sure government is not just present in ceremonies, but present in their everyday struggles,” Speaker Romualdez said
