Soldiers, cops asked to remain apolitical

MANILA, Philippines - The police and military have been asked to remain apolitical in next year’s elections.

“While allowing the electoral process to run its course, our men in uniform must remain focused on their duties and mandate to the country,” Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said during his visit with Interior Secretary Senen Sarmiento to the Western Command in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on Monday.

Gazmin and Sarmiento said soldiers and policemen should also maintain their professionalism to ensure that next year’s elections will be peaceful and orderly.

The defense and interior secretaries are conducting joint visits to frontline troops to boost their morale and underscore the importance of the police and military’s non-partisanship in any political activity, a statement issued by the public affairs office of the Department of National Defense stated.

Gazmin and Sarmiento’s joint visits have fueled speculation within police and military circles that they are checking the political leanings of the troops.

A number of military and police commanders are reportedly campaigning for certain presidential candidates.

A retired soldier from Mindanao told The STAR his former colleagues are trying to convince him to support Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Another group of soldiers is campaigning for Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, the retired soldier added.