Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar together with Philippine National Police chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA
Malacañang is taking “seriously” the reported destabilization plots against President Rodrigo Duterte, a Palace official said on Tuesday.
“We take any destabilization moves seriously whether it’s a rumor or A1 information, it is against the law. It’s inciting to rebellion and this has happened in the past,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar told reporters in a press briefing.
The Palace official said they have received the alleged threats to oust Duterte from credible sources.
“I have received information from credible sources in the United States. Yes we have names but I don’t want to mention it,” he said.
He said the Palace was now investigating the reported plot.
“We are looking [at] it seriously. We are investigating it,” he said.
While he refused to name the people behind the plot, he warned them to “think twice” because they may be charged with rebellion.
“Whoever is planning an ouster or coup d’ état just be careful with what you do. Think twice. It’s not lawful to bring down the government,” he said.
On Monday, Andanar said a Cabinet member, who is currently in New York, told him that some Filipino-Americans want Duterte out by January 2017.
He decried the destabilization moves, saying these “do not help the government.”
Days before Andanar’s statement, some members of the media received text messages urging them to attend a rally at the Edsa People Power Monument to call for Duterte’s resignation.
“Let’s converge, let’s unite vs Duterte. Please attend today’s rally at Edsa People Power Monument and let us call for his resignation. This will spearhead by Duterte Resign Movement, Magdalo and other political personalities. Walang alisan dito, tuloy-tuloy tayo. Please pass,” the text message read. CDG/rga
READ: Palace exec pooh-poohs ‘oust Duterte plot’ by Fil-Am group