BUTUAN CITY – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has strongly condemned the circulation of false information alleging that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. threatened to revoke the pensions of military personnel.
The AFP issued the statement following a controversial social media post by Congressman Kiko Barzaga, which carried the headline: “Breaking News — President Marcos threatens to remove AFP pension in fear of Military sedition.”
According to the AFP, there is no truth to this claim. The statement was labeled as malicious, misleading, and deliberately crafted to deceive the public.
“There has been no directive, statement, or policy from the President—or any government agency—supporting such a claim,” the AFP clarified. “In fact, the current administration continues to support the welfare of uniformed personnel, including the protection of their pensions and benefits.”
The AFP reminded the public that military pensions are guaranteed by law, and are a hard-earned benefit granted after at least 20 years of faithful, honorable, and dedicated service to the nation.
Under existing laws, the pension of a retired soldier can only be revoked if the individual is convicted of a crime through due process and a final court ruling. No official—regardless of position—has the authority to arbitrarily suspend or revoke these pensions without a valid legal basis.
The AFP also urged all government officials—particularly elected ones—to exercise caution, accuracy, and integrity when sharing information with the public.
“Spreading false narratives that sow division and distrust among the public has no place in true public service,” the AFP stressed.
Finally, the AFP called on Congressman Barzaga to cease the dissemination of disinformation that undermines public trust and damages the morale of the soldiers who are sworn to protect the nation.
