AFP chief: I'm on the side of the people

MANILA, Philippines - Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Delfin Bangit vowed to uphold the Constitution even if there are people who doubt the AFP’s efforts to ensure a smooth transfer of power.

During a Mass held in St. Ignatius Cathedral at Camp Aguinaldo yesterday, Bangit lamented that AFP activities intended to ensure peaceful elections have been greeted with suspicion.

“I will die with my conviction to serve only God, country and people. I will die with my conviction that I will always stand by the Constitution. I will always be on the side of the people. I will do that to the last drop of my blood,” he said.

He vowed to fight anyone who would violate the Constitution.

But when asked if this included President Arroyo, Bangit replied, “What is your understanding of ‘anyone’? Sometimes you (media) drive me to a political question to make a political statement. I honestly believe the President will not do it (violate the Constitution),” he said.

He also belied text messages claiming that the AFP will connive with those who plan to rig the 2010 polls.

“In spite of all our efforts, we are still being doubted. Speculations are formed when we wear our camouflage uniform. Some think we are heading for war. What we are saying is we want to serve the people,” he added.

Bangit cited as example the interfaith prayer held last week in Camp Aguinaldo, which was meant to display the unity between the military and the police.

“Some think the interfaith prayer was just for show, that we are doing this because we are planning something sinister. We did the interfaith rally with all sincerity,” Bangit told radio dzBB.

“I am also human. I won’t hide anything from you. Everyday, I am hurting but I am a soldier and I have responsibilities to fulfill,” he said.

The AFP top brass called on the public to trust the military, saying this would give them the strength to fulfill their duties.

Various sectors are claiming that Mrs. Arroyo is planning to use the military to prolong her stay in power but officials have dismissed such allegations as baseless rumors.

The AFP also expressed confidence that today’s elections would be held smoothly despite the various violent incidents recorded in some areas.

“I think it would be okay. There are election-related violent incidents but that is normal. These are expected. We are on top of the situation,” said AFP vice commander Lt. Gen. Rodrigo Maclang in an interview.

Maclang said communist rebels are expected to launch attacks to disrupt the polls but claimed such attempts are manageable.

Bangit, on the other hand, said they have alerted all their response units to thwart any attempt by lawless elements to sow violence.

“What I am very confident of is we will have a very good election,” he said.

The AFP has been placed on red alert since April 30 until May 20 to ensure the availability of troops that would respond to security concerns during the polls. A declaration of red alert places all troops on standby.