Antonio Trillanes IV. (File photo from Philippine Daily Inquirer)
MANILA, Philippines — The backing of some former military and police officers for the presidential bid of Vice President Leni Robredo refutes the red-tagging of her supporters, senatorial candidate Antonio Trillanes said Wednesday.
Trillanes cited the support being given to Robredo by retired Philippine National Police (PNP) Maj. Gen. Generoso Cerbo Jr. and retired Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Maj. Gen. Domingo Tutaan.
“Judging by reports, I wouldn’t be surprised if there is already a battalion of former military and police colonels and generals that has gone proudly pink,” Trillanes said in a statement.
“Former AFP and PNP chiefs, all anti-insurgency veterans, have come out for Leni, and their support belies the fake news peddled by conspiracy theorists,” he added.
Trillanes did not mention names. However, Cavite 7th District Rep. Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla earlier claimed that some students who attended the Robredo campaign rally in his province were “trained” by the National Democratic Front.
Trillanes said that if Robredo’s critics “have even an iota of doubt on her ability to lead, the retired generals will not put their hard-won reputation on the line by saying that the Vice President is ready to step up as commander-in-chief.”
“Kung naniniwala sila sa black propaganda laban kay Leni, hindi sila pipirma ng manifesto, hindi sila mangangampanya para kay Leni,” Trillanes said.
Trillanes said those claiming that the huge attendance in Robredo rallies were “either paid or red” are “taking a leaf out of the martial law propaganda handbook.”