P-Noy signs law increasing burial aid for veterans

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino has signed a law increasing the burial benefits of war veterans.

Republic Act 10649 provides that burial aid for veterans will be doubled from P10,000 to P20,000.

This excludes, however, persons who are also entitled to similar benefit from the US government.

The families of deceased veterans can avail themselves of the program if they filed the request “within two years from the death of the veteran.”

Appropriations for the new law will be charged against the current year’s appropriations for burial expenses of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office.

Meanwhile, the amount necessary for the continued implementation will be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.

RA 10649 was signed by Aquino last Thursday and was approved by the House and Senate last May 15 and Sept. 15, respectively.

Concern for troops

The defense department and the military welcomed yesterday the law increasing the burial benefits of veterans, saying it manifests the government’s concern for troops.

“It’s a very welcome news on the part of the department, especially because we have been pushing for this legislation through the support of the House of Representatives and the Senate,” Defense Undersecretary for Civil, Veterans and Reserve Affairs Eduardo Batac said.

“It is another manifestation of President Aquino and Secretary (Voltaire) Gazmin’s strong support and deep concern for our soldiers and veterans,” he added.

Armed Forces spokesman Maj. Gen. Domingo Tutaan Jr. said the measure would boost the morale of soldiers. – With Alexis Romero