“Ang serbisyo ng isang sundalo ay hindi nagtatapos sa pagre-retire.”
This was the reminder of Commodore Luidegar Casis, chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Pensions and Gratuity Management Center (PGMC), during an interview on DZRH News’ Special on Saturday (SOS) on August 30.
Commodore Casis said military retirees remain an invaluable part of the nation, carrying decades of experience and wisdom that the country can still tap—especially in light of challenges in the West Philippine Sea.
According to Commodore Casis, the PGMC’s advocacy of “Service Beyond Retirement” reflects this philosophy.
He emphasized that their office not only ensures accurate pension computation “to the cent” for retirees but also extends care to beneficiaries and families of deceased soldiers.
“Even after they pass on, we continue to take care of the families they left behind,” Commodore Casis noted, adding that retirees and beneficiaries currently number more than 140,000 nationwide.
Commodore Casis also highlighted the office’s efforts to make pensions more accessible. He personally leads PGMC caravans to far-flung units and maintains 20 regional liaison offices to reach pensioners closer to home.
A new mobile application is also in the works to streamline updating requirements, while a memorandum of agreement with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) ensures secure, fraud-free verification of pension transfers when retirees pass away.
The Commodore also expressed pride in the dedication of PGMC personnel, recalling how staff reported for duty despite last week’s heavy rains and suspended government work.
“We even have a line dedicated for pensioners abroad, because we know the time difference. Our commitment is to make their updating convenient and accessible,” he said.
During the program, Commodore Casis took the opportunity to invite the public to the “1st VeteRun 2025: Takbo Para sa Pensyonado” on September 20 at Camp Aguinaldo.
The fun run will raise support for the HEROES program, honoring the sacrifices of veterans and retirees.
Open to all—retirees, active soldiers, civilians, families, and even pets—the event will feature 10-kilometer, 5-kilometer, 3-kilometer, and 2-kilometer runs and walks.
“Patuloy po nating inaakay ang ating veterans,” Commodore Casis said, adding that such events keep alive the recognition that “peace and prosperity today are built on the sacrifices of those who watched over the nation yesterday.”
Commodore Casis said support from financial institutions, government, and non-government partners under the HEROES program reflects a growing appreciation for the role of veterans.
In closing, Casis issued a public call to honor living heroes by participating in the September 20 VeteRun.
“Our retirees are our living heroes. Please come and join us. Let’s bring our friends and families. Let’s continue to honor our heroes,” he said.
