MANILA — Malacañang on Friday issued a firm reminder to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to remain neutral and apolitical, as political tensions escalated following remarks from Vice President Sara Duterte questioning the state’s support for soldiers.
The Palace stressed that the military must stay focused on its constitutional mandate and resist being drawn into political conflicts, amid what it described as attempts to sow division within the ranks.
In a statement, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and loyalty to the Constitution rather than to any political interest.
“Sa magigiting natin na mga kasundaluhan, manatili lamang kayong walang kinikilingang pansarili o political interest dahil alam ninyo ang tunay na stance ng Pangulo,” Castro said.
“Huwag magpaloko sa mga taong sakim sa kapangyarihan. Walang kasing tamis ang tunay na magmahal at manilbihan ng tapat sa sariling bayan lamang,” she added.
The Palace issued the statement following remarks from Vice President Sara Duterte, who said during a Day of Valor event in Davao City that the current state of the country has failed Filipino soldiers, citing concerns over foreign policy.
Castro rejected the Vice President’s claims, saying the administration remains committed to safeguarding national interests, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
She also stressed that Duterte does not represent the entire military, describing soldiers as “intelligent and professional.”
“Kitang kita ito sa pamumuno nina [Defense] Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and [Armed Forces of the Philippines chief] Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr.,” Castro said.
The Palace official further alleged that political allies of the Vice President may be frustrated over failed efforts to unseat President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
“Ang mandato ng mga sundalong Pilipino ay magsilbi sa sambayanan ng naaayon sa batas at hindi sa political interest ng isang pamilya lamang na nagnanais ng agad-agad na makuha ang kapangyarihan,” Castro said./PN
