AFP on red alert amid protests vs corruption

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is on red alert status amid protests being conducted against   alleged corruption in the country.

“Lahat po ng units ng Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas have been placed na po on red alert status effective po nung 12 September 2025,” AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla told Super Radyo dzBB.

(all AFP units hae been placed on red alert status on Sept 12, 2025)

Padilla said this move is to ensure readiness and support to the Philippine National Police (PNP) in maintaining peace and order.

“Ito po ay isang precautionary measure po sa part po natin. Ito po ay standard security protocols. We would like to emphasize na wala po tayong dapat ikabahala,” she said.

(This is a precautionary measure. This is standard security protocol. We would like to emphasize that the public has nothing to worry about.)

Padilla explained that with the implementation of the red alert status, a certain number of AFP personnel is required to be on standby, leaves of personnel are on hold, and they are ready for any unexpected events.

Earlier today, transport group PISTON announced that it will hold a protest against the alleged corruption related to the anomalous flood projects.

On Saturday, several groups staged a protest in Quezon City against the alleged misuse of public funds.

Generally peaceful

In a separate statement, PNP reported that the recent rallies in Metro Manila are generally peaceful. 

It said more than 2,100 police officers and 1,500 Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) personnel were deployed to maintain public safety and traffic movement. 

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to every police officer who stood watch with professionalism and compassion. Your discipline and respect for human rights reflect the best of our service,” PNP acting chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said. 

“I thank the public, including rally organizers and participants, for your cooperation and for observing agreed protocols. Together, we showed that dialogue and peaceful assembly can thrive in a democracy,” he added.

Amid the ongoing protests, Malacañang has said that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. respects freedom of expression. —VAL, GMA Integrated News