Sen. Angara pushes additional benefits for uniformed personnel

(Eagle News) — Senator Sonny Angara is seeking the passage of a measure asking additional allowance and benefits of all uniformed personnel of the Philippine National Police.

The call was made in the face of the alleged withholding of P59.5 million worth of allowances and hazardous pay of the PNP’s Special Action Force (SAF) members.

“Kakarampot na nga lamang na allowance, nagawa pang ipagdamot sa ating mga magigiting na SAF troopers?” Angara pointed out.

“We call for the immediate resolution of such withheld allowances and we urge the PNP leadership to not let this disservice to our troops happen again,” he added.

Angara is pushing for the passage of the Senate Bill No.138 or the Magna Carte for the PNP.

Under the measure, the PNP will receive cost of living allowances, clothing allowance, quarter’s allowance, and subsistence allowance, as well as longevity pay, reasonable leaves and retirement programs.

Angara also said that under the bill, PNP personnel who will be assigned in remote areas or isolated situations will be compensated with a remote assignment allowance and special hardship allowance, that is similar to combat pay of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

This also aims to give recognition and to put dignity into the country’s premiere police force.

“This Magna Carta seeks to put dignity into the country’s premiere police force. The government should provide support to foster a highly efficient and competent PNP. It’s the least we can do as they put their lives at stake in their commitment to preserve peace and order and protect the lives of Filipino people,” Angara said.