Palace pooh-poohs 'swelling' support for detained general

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang on Monday brushed aside the expression of support for detained Army Brigadier General Danilo Lim. Radio dzBB’s Aileen Intia quoted Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita as saying that the military groups who voiced their support for the controversial general do not pose a threat to the country’s national security. For his part, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro said the groups only want to wreak havoc at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). A national broadsheet on Monday published a paid advertisement of 10 military groups composed of retired and active soldiers vouching their support for Lim, who is reportedly eyeing public office in the 2010 national elections. Lim, former commander of the Army's elite Scout Rangers, is among the 28 military men being tried in court martial proceedings for their alleged link to the failed military uprising in February 2006. Lim also faces rebellion charges in connection with the November 2007 stand-off at the Peninsula Manila hotel in Makati City. He is currently detained at the PNP Custodial Center at Camp Crame. In their statement, the groups said they aspire "for the collective vision of a country for peace, progress, and prosperity" and that they are "officially united" under Lim’s leadership. The groups also sad that they need to strengthen their ranks "in the face of a ruthless enemy" and that the public clamors for "a new breed of leader." "[Lim] has the essential leadership qualities to steer us toward our vision, has the impeccable character to lead with moral authority, and has consistently displayed uncommon valor and patriotism in the face of extremely difficult situations," they added. Earlier in the day, the Armed Forces belittled the groups’ statements, adding that they are free to express their "general aspirations." Lieutenant Colonel Ernesto Torres, AFP spokesperson, also said they do not perceive the soldiers’ move as "a threat to national security." - Sophia Dedace, GMANews.TV