AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar talks to reporters in an interview in his office. John Eric Mendoza/INQUIRER.net
Updated at 6:20 p.m.
MANILA, Philippines — There is no destabilization plot against President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration, according to the military.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar said that Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. was “misquoted” after reports stated that he revealed a destabilization plot against Marcos in a change of command ceremony of the Western Mindanao Command on Friday.
“General Romeo S Brawner Jr, the Chief of Staff, AFP, was simply misquoted,” Aguilar said in a statement.
Aguilar clarified that Brawner “merely mentioned the reported efforts by certain individuals to upset the peace and stability that the country is enjoying right now under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.”
The spokesperson also noted that Brawner only reminded all AFP personnel “to remain professional and loyal to their oath to protect the people and the State.”
READ: AFP chief Brawner to soldiers: Shun destabilization plots
During his speech at the ceremony, Brawner urged the active personnel of the AFP not to join the alleged movement led by retired officials as there have been efforts to recruit from among their ranks.
The top AFP official also said he has discussed this issue with the retired officials.
For his part, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año denied that these retired military officials were hatching a destabilization plot, but he noted that some of them were expressing criticisms against the Marcos government.
“Yes, there were healthy and passionate exchanges/debates among some retired or former military officers and even some criticism against certain policies of the current administration but they are within the bounds of our democratic space,” Año said in a statement.
“Although often abused, they are part of the freedom of expression where most are academic discussions or politically motivated.
“But there is no destabilization plot/movement against the government,” Año continued.
Año, who was the AFP chief under former President Rodrigo Duterte, assured that the armed forces and the security sector remain loyal to Marcos.
“The AFP and the entire security sector are loyal to the commander in chief and will not be influenced to join any destabilization plot against the government.
“The security sector shall remain vigilant and ready to take immediate action against any sinister group that will undermine our national security,” he said.
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