AFP on red alert for EDSA 40th anniv

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has placed its units under red alert status in preparation for public assemblies for the 40th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution on February 25.

At a press briefing, AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margaret Padilla said the red alert is a standard readiness measure to ensure troops and resources are on standby in case the Philippine National Police (PNP) needs assistance.

“As early as 21 February, we have already raised our status to Red Alert. So, ibig sabihin nyan, naka-standby na po ang ating tropa for any eventuality,” Padilla said.

(As early as 21 February, we have already raised our status to Red Alert. So, that means, our troops are on standby for any eventuality.)

“So, ang resources po natin, troops ready for deployment if need be po. So, augmenting pa rin tayo under the [National Capital Region Command] for this,” she added.

(So, our resources, troops are ready for deployment if need be. So, we are still augmenting under the National Capital Region Command for this.)

No threats

Padilla said there were no significant threats reported so far in connection with the EDSA-related activities.

The military also reiterated its commitment to remain non-partisan and focus on its constitutional mandate.

“Ang AFP po, malinaw po ang aming papel dito sa magaganap. Hindi po kami referee ng politika. Ang mandato po namin ay seguridad. We respect the people's right to assemble. And at the same time, we ensure that peace and order are preserved,” Padilla said.

(The AFP, our role here in this is clear. We are not referees of politics. Our mandate is security. We respect the people's right to assemble. And at the same time, we ensure that peace and order are preserved.)

Several groups from different sectors are set to hold a third iteration of the Trillion Peso March to protest against corruption and political dynasties on February 25.

The date commemorates the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution that ousted the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. — father of the current president Marcos Jr.— and installed Corazon Aquino, widow of slain senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., as president. —VAL, GMA Integrated News