Don’t let politicians use you, Aquino urges soldiers

MANILA, Philippines–President Aquino on Thursday exhorted the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), of which he is Commander in Chief, to “remain on the side of the people” as the 2016 elections draws near, warning of political personalities who would want to use them for their own ends.

Aquino’s remarks were the first time he addressed the military directly regarding the coming elections, and the second to last time he will be speaking to them with 18 months left in his term.

“To our military, please do not forget that each time it is your obligation to do what is right and just. Do not give in to temptation or be allowed to be dragged by anyone who wants you to veer away from the straight path,” the President said at the 79th anniversary celebration of the AFP at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

President Benigno Aquino III. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

“2016 is near and we know that during election season, there are those who will insist on using you for their personal interests. This is what the people are telling you: It is your duty to ensure that there will be orderly elections, it is expected that you will remain on the side of the people,” he said in Filipino.

Aquino said that as Commander in Chief, he was proud to lead an armed forces that reflected the “good qualities of our race”—that of helping each other, showing concern and being faithful to the flag and people.

In his speech at the rites, Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang said the AFP had turned into a more responsive and responsible modern force capable of defending the country and protecting the people, and prepared to address the challenges of the 21st century.

Catapang said that with the evolving regional security challenges, it was imperative the AFP developed its territorial defense capability.

“It is important that we adjust our defense structures and synchronize our systems and processes in order to shape an armed force capable of providing a credible defense posture,” he said.

He said adjustments had been made to the modernization effort by identifying capability gaps and laying down requirements. He said the AFP had also come up with the means to fund the modernization program.

RELATED STORIES

AFP told not to be swayed as election nears

Aquino announces increase in soldiers’ subsistence allowance