Destabilization plots, demoralization among ranks not true—AFP leaders

MANILA, Philippines–The military leadership denied on Wednesday the alleged destabilization plots against the Aquino government.

This was made after rumors circulated in the past few days that some members of the organization were “demoralized” of President Benigno Aquino III’s decision not to proclaim an all-out war with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

“I’d like to tell you that morale is high. I was assured by the commanders on the ground that everybody in the area, both in Wesmincom (Western Mindanao Command)) and Eastmincom (Eastern Mindanao Command) are really after the successful operation,” Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Eduardo Oban Jr. told reporters.

He added there is no need for loyalty check in the organization.

While they are still verifying reports if said officers involved in the alleged plot served under the Arroyo government, Oban said they remain focused on keeping their mandate and doing their job.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence Major General Francisco Cruz also backed Oban’s statement.

He told reporters that the destabilization plots were “untrue, no basis and is a mere propaganda.”

He also denied reports that they were asked to conduct loyalty check.

“There was no instruction to conduct loyalty check. There’s no need to conduct loyalty check,” he said.

Cruz also denied demoralization in the organization.

“It’s part and partial job, these are the hazards of the military profession. It’s not only in the Philippines, it’s all over the world, ganyan ang mga experiences nang mga armed forces. But mind you there is no such thing as demoralization. It’s a fabrication. It’s a product of imagination of somebody who likes this government to go down,” Cruz said.