We shall protect the vote

MANILA, Philippines - On May 10, 2010 our people will vote for a new President, Senators and other would-be elected officials. We, members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as citizens will likewise exercise our right to suffrage.

It is not only our hope and prayer but most especially our sincere desire that the exercise will be peaceful, credible, and honest.

The AFP leadership has seen to it that all the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines shall adhere to the Constitution, and its principles inviolable. That much is at stake in Monday’s elections is understandably the responsibility of all.

But as soldiers we have much on our hands. But we assure our people, and with our pledge as soldiers, shall protect the people’s votes and the electoral process free from violence, threats or intimidation. We fully understand the importance of our service and role in helping assure credible elections.

 We further give recognition to all the men and women in uniform who do their best for our national interest. They carry out the mission and dutifully pursue them in many instances where the peoples’ lives were in danger.

 We look at ourselves as soldiers of all seasons – for the nature of our work disregards the limits of time, place and physical conditions. We look forward to the elections as a peaceful and meaningful exercise. We are prepared for democracy to prevail.

God shall lead the way for a better and prosperous life for our nation and its people as we step into a new beginning. – LTC Reynaldo A Agustin PAF Civil Relations Service, AFP Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City