DND: Foreign-backed quarters are parroting rumors of military intervention in politics

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday said “foreign-backed quarters” were allegedly echoing rumors of the Philippine military’s supposed intervention in politics. 

“Foreign-backed quarters are parroting rumors of military intervention for their own benefit in an attempt to subvert our constitutional processes, and hijack the people’s call for accountability and transparency for their personal political agenda,” the DND said in a statement. 

Based on OCTA Research’s survey released on Sunday, 70% of respondents do not agree with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) intervening in politics. Only 5% agreed to it. Meanwhile, 22% of respondents were undecided.

The DND said the public’s rejection of any form of military intervention in politics shows a mature democracy and validates the military’s steadfast commitment to remain non-partisan and focus on defending the nation.

“The DND echoes the AFP’s clarion call—a strong AFP for a strong Philippines. The AFP’s strength lies in its discipline, service, and allegiance to the Constitution and the Filipino people,” the DND said.

“Only enemies of the state wish us to fail,” it added.

In a statement on Sunday, the AFP said the OCTA survey results reaffirm the public’s continued trust in the AFP’s professionalism, discipline, and firm adherence to its constitutional mandate of protecting the people and upholding democratic stability.

Under the leadership of AFP chief General Romeo S Brawner Jr., the AFP said the military organization has strengthened its foundations of integrity, professionalism, and service excellence. 

“Through sustained modernization, capability-building, and personnel development programs, the AFP ensures that its men and women remain disciplined, mission-focused, and loyal only to the Constitution and the Filipino people,” the AFP said.

“The AFP remains steadfast in its duty to defend the nation’s sovereignty, protect the Filipino people, and preserve democracy—anchored on the values of professionalism, discipline, and unity in service to the country,” it added.

Last month, the AFP denied the alleged coup plot involving the military and DND Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. that was circulating online. 

“The public is warned in the strongest terms against a vile and malicious fabrication now circulating online, which alleges a supposed coup plot involving the CIA, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Secretary of National Defense,” the AFP then said in a statement. 

It also said rumors of destabilization and an alleged coup against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., were baseless and unfounded "malicious narrative."

Earlier this month, AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. led military personnel as they renewed their pledge of allegiance to the AFP Code of Conduct, which marked its 35th anniversary on Monday. —KG, GMA Integrated News