This is with reference to the news item in The FREEMAN, particularly in your column entitled “The Filipino Soldier” dated February 01, 2008.
For your information and guidance, I would like to inform you that all veterans who are members of the Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP) have the rights and privileges not only as a living veteran but also as a deceased veteran.
A deceased veteran who died in any town where he is a member of any Veterans Post has all the rights and privileges to having the right not only for the use of our Philippine Flag and Firing detail but also the ceremonies appertaining thereto.
The Philippine Flag can be distributed by the Regional Office of the VFP, Region 7 through the representative of the Regional Vice President. It is the duty not only of the Post Commander to see to it that each deceased veteran can be furnished with the Philippine Flag, Firing details and Burial Ceremonies.
However, those veterans who are not members of any Veterans Post of the Federation is not entitled to any right and privileges particularly the use of Philippine Flag, Firing Details and burial ceremonies. A veteran must be a member of the Federation to avail all the privileges accorded to a member including burial expenses of P1,000.
Thank you very much for bringing this matter to our attention.
(Sgd.) Democrito T. Mendoza
Regional Vice President
Veterans Federation of the Philippines (VFP)
VIMCONTU Welfare Center
Port Area, Cebu City