Bill seeks free legal aid for soldiers facing raps

MANILA, Philippines – A Davao congressman has filed a proposal seeking free legal assistance for soldiers facing administrative or criminal charges.

In filing House Bill 3614, Davao Oriental Rep. Joel Mayo Almario yesterday said soldiers who are facing criminal or administrative cases are having a hard time defending themselves due to lack of money to hire counsel.

“Due to financial constraints, most of these soldiers cannot afford to hire lawyers who can advise them about their legal rights. In many cases, they end up accepting undeserved punishment,” he said.

Almario said his bill aims to provide support to military personnel when they are charged or prosecuted for an offense arising from an incident related to the performance of their duties.

“Their duties require them to be in dangerous places and perform dangerous tasks, especially in critical areas, and putting their lives on the line everyday to protect our people, freedom and institutions,” he added.

Almario pointed out that soldiers are sometimes at risk of being accused of harassment, human rights violations and other baseless accusations.

“Protection for soldiers is needed now more than ever as they are now mandated by President Duterte to take an active role in the anti-illegal drug campaign,” Almario stressed.

“My bill will provide them free legal assistance to protect their rights and encourage them to perform their duties more courageously and more effectively,” he said.