Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has announced the release of approximately PHP783.28 million to fund the 2023 Performance-Based Bonus (PBB) for personnel of the Philippine Navy (PN), the Philippine Air Force (PAF), and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA). The funds were distributed to these three agencies through separate Special Allotment Release Orders (SAROs).

According to Philippines News Agency, the DBM allocated about PHP421.985 million on October 17 to cover the PBB for 25,821 qualified officials and employees of the Philippine Navy. Each eligible PN official and employee will receive a bonus equivalent to 48.75 percent of their respective monthly basic salaries as of December 31, 2023. The DBM emphasized that the bonus is granted to those who have received at least a ‘Very Satisfactory’ rating under the agency’s Civil Service Commission-approved Strategic Performance and Management System or the requirements set by the Career Executive Service Board.

On October 14, the DBM issued another SARO for PHP342.467 million to meet the funding requirements for the 2023 PBB of 19,803 qualified personnel of the Philippine Air Force. Eligible PAF officials and employees are set to receive a bonus equivalent to 52 percent of their respective monthly basic salaries as of December 31, 2023.

Additionally, the DBM released PHP18.828 million to NICA on October 9, benefitting 896 qualified officials and employees. These personnel will receive a bonus equivalent to 52 percent of their basic salaries as of December 21, 2023.

DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman highlighted the significance of the 2023 PBB as more than just a financial incentive, describing it as a token of gratitude to the men and women in uniform who serve the nation with courage and dedication. She also emphasized that the approval of the 2023 PBB represents President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s support and appreciation for the members of the PN, PAF, and NICA, who continue to protect the Filipino people from threats, often at great risk and sacrifice.

Pangandaman further acknowledged the sacrifices made by soldiers and intelligence personnel, stating that the PBB may be small compared to their sacrifices, but it is a way to recognize their heroism and commitment to the nation.

Before these recent fund releases, the DBM had approved the allocation of PHP1.64 billion for the 2023 PBB of 110,688 qualified officials and employees of the Philippine Army, and PHP3.39 billion for over 225,000 personnel of the Philippine National Police.