Manila, April 24 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed Republic Act No. 12177, or the Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act, showing that his administration "does not leave its defenders behind," Speaker Martin Romualdez said Thursday.

"This isn't just about legal defense. It's about giving peace of mind to ordinary soldiers and cops on the ground," Romualdez said in a statement.

"It tells them: 'Just do your job, serve with honor, and we will stand with you all the way'."

RA 12177 mandates the government to shoulder legal fees and provide comprehensive free legal services to military and uniformed personnel (MUPs) who face civil, criminal or administrative charges concerning the lawful performance of...