AFP rejects transfer of Camp Aguinaldo

MANILA, Philippines - The military is against the resolution of Quezon City councilor Godofredo Liban III to move Camp Aguinaldo out of the city as it allayed fears that the civilians living near the camp might be harmed once armed groups attack the installation.

Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr. said there is no rebel group strong enough to attack their main headquarters. “There are no large (rebel) groups. We do not have enemies of the state who are that big, large enough that can attack the biggest military camps. Perhaps they can attack undermanned detachments but not big camps that have thousands of men,” he said.

Mabanta added that they have measures to ensure that the armaments stored in the camp would not endanger the lives of civilians. “These are well secured from time to time these are being inspected,” the AFP spokesman said.

Mabanta also said that it is unlikely for the military to join uprisings that can endanger the safety of residents.

“Gone are the days of military adventurism. Coup d’ etat is the farthest thing on our mind,” he said.

Last week, Liban proposed a resolution calling for the transfer of Camp Aguinaldo and Camp Crame to another place, saying this would ensure the safety of residents around the two installations.

Camp Aguinaldo houses the AFP General Headquarters and the Department of National Defense office. Camp Crame is the national headquarters of the Philippine National Police.

Liban said the lives of civilians around the camps may be placed at risk if these are attacked by armed rebels or coup plotters. He said that the explosives or ammunition stored in the camps may cause a huge fire. The councilor also claimed that transferring the camps would bring private development to the area where they are now situated.

Mabanta said they cannot give up Camp Aguinaldo, which he described as a heritage site. “This camp was formed or established right before World War II which makes this whole place a heritage (site). We cannot really give it up. It means a lot to us,” he said.