MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has signed into law Republic Act No. 12177, which institutionalizes free legal assistance for military and uniformed personnel (MUP) facing charges linked to their official duties.
Also known as the Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act, the measure ensures that MUP involved in criminal, civil, or administrative proceedings due to service-related incidents are granted state-funded legal aid.
According to the law, service-related cases involve legal complaints arising from or connected to the discharge of official duties or performance of assigned functions.
This benefit also extends to retired, honorably discharged, or separated personnel, as long as the case stems from their time in active service.
Qualified MUP can receive assistance in various forms:
- Legal representation in relevant legal proceedings;
- Consultations and legal advice;
- Document preparation, including pleadings and motions;
- Coverage of court and related legal fees;
- Notarization services.
The measure underscores the government’s commitment to support uniformed personnel who often face legal threats while performing risky public service roles.
