Tight security at PMA dampens coup rumors

Tight security measures at the annual Philippine Military Academy (PMA) alumni homecoming dampened rumors of a power grab by disgruntled soldiers. “The PMA alumni homecoming was supposed to be the target of Oplan Hackle, but it did not materialize because of the preparations," Col. Tristan Kison, Armed Forces spokesman, said. Part of “Oplan Hackle" are supposedly the display of anti-government propaganda at the PMA grounds, the assassination of President Arroyo and some members of her Cabinet and a subsequent grab of power from the present administration. Members of the political opposition, leftist groups and disgruntled military personnel were allegedly behind the plot that is supposed to be implemented during the PMA homecoming. Hours before PMA alumni gathered at Boromeo field for the traditional march, armed soldiers were seen patrolling the grounds while military policemen checked on all vehicles entering the PMA premises. “What just happened at the PMA is peaceful. This is only a proof that we will not allow ourselves to be held hostage by this threat," Kison said. Kison said the Philippine National Police raised a full alert Friday after rumors about a destabilization plot circulated. Opposition Sen. Panfilo Lacson (PMA Class ‘51), a former police chief, was absent at the homecoming. Lacson has been calling for the resignation of Mrs. Arroyo. Arroyo was also absent at the homecoming. The President is an adopted member of PMA Class ‘78, which include Presidential Security Group chief Brig. Gen. Delfin Bangit.