DBM OKs release of P1.64B for 2023 performance bonuses of Army personnel

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of over a billion pesos worth of funds to pay the performance-based bonuses (PBB) of over 100,000 personnel of the Philippine Army.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DBM said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman green-lit the release of P1.64 billion for the payment of the Fiscal Year 2023 PBB of 110,688 qualified officials and employees of the Philippines Army.

Under the approved release, the DBM said each eligible Army official and employee will receive a PBB equivalent to 45.50% of their monthly basic salary as of December 31, 2023. 

The Budget Department added that those in the First, Second, and Third Levels must have achieved at least a "Very Satisfactory" rating under the Civil Service Commission-approved Strategic Performance and Management System (SPMS), the system required by the Career Executive Service Board.

The DBM said the funds will be charged against the Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund under Republic Act 12116 or the Fiscal Year 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).

"Our soldiers dedicate their lives to defending peace and protecting our people. This release underlines our commitment to recognize and reward our men and women in uniform who fulfill their duties with excellence," said Pangandaman.

The Budget Department said the approved release signals the continued efforts of the administration of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. to support the welfare of government employees and to ensure that public funds are used with transparency and responsibly in delivering due compensation. — VDV, GMA Integrated News