DND, AFP back government's campaign vs. corruption

The Department of the National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Friday that they fully support President Ferdinand Marcos’ campaign against corruption after a group called on the country’s defense forces to withdraw support for the president. 

“We fully support the anti-corruption campaign led by no less than the President as we collectively work towards a responsive, responsible, and just government for all," read the joint statement by the joint statement by Defense chief Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and AFP chief-of-staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. 

"This is not just a government initiative—it is a national crusade for good governance, justice, and progress. We owe it to our veterans, our heroes, and to future generations to ensure that the Philippines is firmly grounded in integrity,” the statement said.

An organization during a protest said that the AFP must withdraw its support to Marcos to help expedite the accountability of those allegedly involved in the anomalous flood control projects. 

The DND and the AFP maintained that they are both “professional and non-partisan” organizations.

“The Department of National Defense, together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, is fully committed to upholding the tenets of the Constitution and our mandate to the Filipino people. As a professional and non-partisan organization, the DND and AFP remain steadfast defenders of our nation and our democratic institutions,” the statement said. 

“We reject all attempts to patronize the AFP by certain groups that insinuate or suggest unconstitutional, unilateral interventions by the former. The AFP abides by the constitution through the Chain of Command.” 

The two organizations also called on the public to trust the democratic institutions. 

“The strength of our Republic rests on the rule of law and the unity of our people. At this crucial time, we call on every Filipino to place their trust in our democratic institutions, to respect our processes, and to work together in the spirit of patriotism. True and lasting change can only come through peaceful, lawful, and democratic means,” the statement read.