Duterte to poll bets: No excess bodyguards, firearms

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte on Friday reminded candidates of the May midterm elections that he is adopting the so-called Alunan Doctrine which limits the number of politicians’ armed guards.

“Any politician, whether for or against me or my administration, are bound by the same limitations of law. That is the Alunan Doctrine which I am adopting because it is good for the country. Nobody, no politicians would go around with long firearms,” Duterte said during an event in Legazpi City, Albay.

The Alunan Doctrine was introduced by Rafael Alunan III who served as Interior secretary of then president Fidel V. Ramos.

The doctrine considers two or more armed men as a private army that should be disarmed by the government.

It also called for the recovery of loose firearms throughout the country.

The President also asked communist rebels that if they want another shot at talking peace with the government, they better “not mess up” with the elections

“Kayong mga komunistang nakikinig, if you really find it in your heart to be a participant of an exercise of the people to choose their candidate, kindly do not mess up with it,” Duterte said.

(To the communists, if you really want to take part in the electoral process, don’t mess with it.)

“If you still want me or maybe hoping to talk to me with the remaining three years, I’d like you to honor this tradition of our people,” he added.

Duterte likewise ordered members of his Cabinet not to endorse or campaign for any candidate. /gsg

READ: Cabinet members told to keep off campaign trail