THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday reiterate its unwavering commitment to professionalism, loyalty to the Constitution and strict adherence to the Chain of Command.
The assurance arise amid a a call to withdraw support from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
In a statement, AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla said “Our soldiers, pilots, sailors, and marines remain dedicated to our mandate of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Philippines, regardless of any political affiliations or individuals in authority.”
Padilla said AFP’s duty is to protect the Filipino people, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that peace and development will prevail in the country.
“We will continue to fulfill these responsibilities with integrity, impartiality, and utmost dedication,” she said.
At a press conference, PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said that at present, there is no basis to withdraw support from duly constituted authorities.
“On the part of the PNP, we have the Constitution at ang aming loyatly ay nasa kababayan po. Let us spare our uniformed personnel sa mga ganitong usaping politikal,” Fajardo said.
“Wala namang basehan po sa ngayon po para mag-alis tayo o mag-withdraw ng suporta sa duly constituted authorities at ito ay igalang po muna natin,” she added.
During a rally with former President Rodrigo Duterte in Tagum City on Sunday, Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez appealed to the military organization to withdraw support from Marcos.
“Nakikiusap ako sa inyo. We don’t have to hurt each other. We don’t have to fire a single shot. Simple lang, sa mapayapang paraan. Please withdraw your support to the Chief Executive,” Alvarez said.
