New law gives free legal aid to uniformed personnel over ‘service-related’ cases
Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has signed into law an act offering free legal aid to duty and retired military and uniformed personnel facing “service-related” cases.
Signed April 15 but released on Friday, Republic Act No. 12177 seeks to provide free legal assistance to officers in criminal, civil, or administrative proceedings arising from incidents that happen on duty.
The free service will also be offered for officers facing cases related to the discharge of their official functions or the performance of their duties.
All free legal services listed in the law include:
- Legal representation in civil, criminal or administrative proceedings, as far as practicable
- Legal advice or consultations
Preparation of pleadings, motions, memoranda, and all other legal forms and documents
Court fee and other related fees
- Notarization of documents
Under the new law, the government said it will promote peace and order via efficient and effective services provided by “highly motivated” military and uniformed personnel.
RA 12177, or the Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act, applies to officers, enlisted and uniformed personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Corrections, Philippine National Police, and the Hydrography Branch of the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority.
Upon implementation, the Act will now apply to all uniformed personnel who have pending service-related cases.
