Mikee Romero resigns from AFP Reserve Force amid awards issue

MANILA, Philippines — Former lawmaker and Philippine Air Force Reservist Michael “Mikee” Romero has formally resigned from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Reserve Force following recent issues regarding his military awards.

In a letter addressed to AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Antonio Nafarrete dated August 19, Romero stated his intention to resign and relinquish his duties as Wing Commander of the Tactical Operations Wing Reserve Northern Luzon.

The resignation came almost a week after the Senate Commission on Appointments confirmed his promotion to brigadier general on August 13.

“It has been a great privilege and honor to serve our country alongside the dedicated men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. I am deeply grateful for the trust, friendship, camaraderie, and opportunities afforded to me throughout my years of service," Romero said.

Gold Cross allegations

Romero was recently accused by retired and active uniformed personnel of “stolen valor” for allegedly possessing a Gold Cross Medal, after a photo of him with Nafarrete went viral and appeared to show him wearing the said award.

Based on the 2014 AFP Awards and Decorations Manual, the Gold Cross Medal is the third-highest military award given to personnel for “acts of gallantry” in the face of an enemy.

Romero has denied the accusations and said that the medal shown in the photo was merely mistaken for the Gold Cross.

“The award mistakenly identified as the Gold Cross Medal by others is actually the Gawad sa Kapayapaan, awarded in recognition of my efforts that helped the AFP acquire three brand-new C-130 aircraft in 2022 during my time in Congress,” he said.

Romero previously served as 1-Pacman Party-list representative from 2016 to 2025, during which he became the Senior Deputy Speaker.

Among the measures he authored was the AFP Salary Standardization, which increased personnel’s salaries by an average of 58.7%.

In 2021, he was recognized as a colonel after receiving the honorary Philippine Air Force Gold Wing. He was later promoted to brigadier general in the Philippine Air Force Reserve.

Reviewing awards policies

In response to the issue, the Philippine Air Force (PAF) is currently reviewing its policies on awards and badges.

PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco said in a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo on August 18 that the ongoing “extensive” review covers all aspects of the policies, including awards given to reservists.

“We have an ongoing policy review so that we could ensure that all records, uniform wear are standard, accurate, and aligned with all our existing regulations,” Basco said.

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