President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has officially signed into law Republic Act No. 12177, also known as the Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel (MUP) Act.
The law guarantees free legal aid for military and uniformed personnel involved in service-related cases — whether criminal, civil, or administrative — stemming from their official duties.
This legal support covers active, retired, honorably discharged, or separated MUPs, as long as the case is connected to their time in service. Proceedings may be filed before a court, prosecutor’s office, quasi-judicial body, or any other tribunal.
Eligible MUPs will receive:
- Legal representation in court and administrative hearings
- Consultations and legal advice
- Assistance with drafting pleadings, motions, and documents
- Payment of court and legal processing fees
- Notarization of legal forms
This move is seen as a major support system for those in uniform who face legal challenges while fulfilling their duties to the state.