AFP 'loyalty check' at Central Command

The Commanding General of the Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Brig. Gen. Jaime Buenaflor, along with four other military officials from Camp Aguinaldo, visited the Central Command yesterday morning for a loyalty check.

The officials were here to listen to grievances and concerns of the military on salary increases, housing and livelihood projects; and check on why some soldiers are reportedly withdrawing their support from the Arroyo administration.

In a press conference, Buenaflor said that they are here to inform the soldiers on what really is happening between the military and the government. He said that it is painful to know that members of the Magdalo group are being misguided and are establishing alliances with the leftist group. Despite the crisis, he assured AFP is still united.

Buenaflor, on the other hand, said that the military and the Philippine National Police are looking after former senator Gregorio "Gringo" Honasan and said that if he's not indeed involved in any coup attempt then there's no reason for him to go into hiding, and that he should face in court all accusations hurled against him.

Meanwhile, Major Gerry Zamudio, one of the members of the visiting team of the AFP, yesterday told The FREEMAN that they are here to inform the soldiers and arm them with knowledge so they would be able to protect themselves from those who will try to recruit their services in attempts to topple the government.

Zamudio said that based on his evaluation, there are some soldiers who have been victims of the propaganda believed to be a part of the grand plan of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army. - Norvie S. Misa