The medal is awarded for heroic achievement or meritorious service during, or in support of military action against an enemy.

Criteria for award varies as it may be awarded "...for heroic achievement in combat or meritorious achievement for service not involving participation in combat, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the Philippines; for a single act of meritorious service either in a duty responsibility or in direct support of military operations."

Division and major subordinate unit commanders, holding at least the rank of Brigadier General, may also award the medal.

[2] The Military Merit Medal may be awarded posthumously to members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

[2] The medal is irregular in shape, taking the form of a downward pointing equilateral triangle, enameled in red.