Once again, AFP assures public of non-partisan stand

MANILA, Philippines — Amid continuing political turbulence, the military again assured the public yesterday that it will remain non-partisan and loyal to the Constitution.

In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it would not allow itself to be dragged into partisan politics. 

“The loyalty of every AFP personnel remains firmly anchored on the Constitution, the rule of law and the duly-constituted civilian authority,” the military declared. 

“The AFP is a professional and non-partisan institution committed to its mandate to defend the sovereignty of the State,” it added.

The military said it “strongly condemns any attempt to drag the organization into partisan politics, as its unwavering commitment to the Constitution remains paramount.” 

“The AFP will continue to support lawful government efforts to uphold peace and order, protect national security and safeguard the rights and welfare of all Filipinos,” the AFP’s statement read. 

The AFP did not elaborate on why such a statement was issued again, considering how it has repeatedly issued similar declarations in the past. 

Rejecting calls to act or react to various political issues, including the flood control scandal and other corruption issues in government, the AFP maintained that its officials and personnel will remain disciplined, professional and apolitical.

It recently appealed to the public and the media not to refer to former house appropriations committee chairman Zaldy Co’s former bodyguards as former members of the Philippine Marine Corps.