Mikee Romero retires from AFP Reserve Force amid review of reservist awards

Former lawmaker Michael “Mikee” Romero has retired from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Reserve Force amid a review of the recruitment, promotion, and conferment of awards.

“It has been a profound privilege and honor to serve our country alongside the dedicated men and women of the AFP. I am deeply grateful for the trust, friendship, camaraderie, and opportunities afforded to me through my service,” Romero said in a statement on Thursday.

“My service in uniform may come to an end. My duty to our people, our sovereignty, our flag, and our country will endure,” he added.

His retirement comes following the announcement of the AFP and Philippine Air Force (PAF) of a review of their policies on the conferment of awards as well as the wearing of honorary badges and insignia by reservists.

PAF spokesperson Colonel Ma. Christina Basco recently said the review was prompted by public interest in Romero’s military service and recognitions.

The AFP said it is reviewing its policies and procedures on the recruitment, promotion, and conferment of awards to personnel of its Reserve Force.

In a statement released Wednesday evening, the Philippine military said, “The AFP remains committed to upholding the integrity, meritocracy, and credibility of its processes.”

The issue gained attention after a photo of Romero in PAF uniform standing beside AFP chief General Antonio Nafarrete circulated online. Some active and retired military personnel questioned the number of decorations worn by Romero, which appeared comparable to those of Nafarrete, a four-star general with 36 years of active military service.

The questions led to accusations of “stolen valor,” which Romero has denied.

Romero has maintained that his rank, appointments, and awards were legitimately conferred upon him by the respective military branches and commands.

“All of these recognitions and honors were voluntarily given based on my service. I never asked or requested these,” Romero earlier said.

In his retirement statement, Romero welcomed the AFP’s validation process and said he respects and supports any review or verification of records through official procedures.

In a separate statement on Thursday, Basco said Romero has been relieved from his post as Wing Commander, Tactical Operations Wing (Reserve) Northern Luzon while the review and investigation are ongoing.

According to Basco, Romero filed his resignation on Wednesday.

“We continue to review and verify all related records and issuances to ensure strict compliance with existing policies and regulations,” she said.

“The PAF remains committed to transparency and adherence to standards in all our processes, as we deeply value the role, contribution, and honor of every reservist who serves alongside us,” she added.—AOL, GMA News