Recto proposes P1-M aid for each wounded Marawi soldier, policeman

Senator Ralph Recto on Saturday called for an increase in financial aid for more than one thousand soldiers wounded in the armed conflict in Marawi City.

In a statement, Recto said he wants the P250,000 financial aid quadrupled to P1 million.

“I think for grave injuries, like multiple amputations, loss of sight, dapat dagdagan pa natin, gawing P1 million. At igarantisa ang habambuhay na alaga at hospitalization,” he said.

“If the injuries sustained by the wounded are so severe that they would require lifetime care and assisted living, then it is time to review if existing policies are enough to provide those,” he added.

Under the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program (CSBP), permanently disabled servicemen should get a one-time financial assistance of P250,000. Those suffering minor and major injuries should receive P100,000.

Recto called for the augmentation of the CSBP. He said that it was based on an estimate of 681 personnel killed or wounded during an entire year.

“The war in Marawi was not factored in. If guns need to be reloaded with ammo, the same is true for the funds of programs to help the wounded and the killed,” Recto said.

The senator said that according to the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the number of wounded government troops reached 845 in July 22.

But based on media reports since then, the number has gone past 1,000 by now, Recto said.

Recto added that the wounded solders are "the other heroes of Marawi" and that it was time to publicly honor them.

“They are casualties too. They may not have paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep the peace, but their valor and courage are no less fierce,” he said. —Jessica Bartolome/ALG, GMA News