Pro-Duterte group disowns ‘RevGov’

DAVAO CITY — The pro-administration Tapang at Malasakit Alliance for the Philippines (TMAP) has distanced itself from allied groups pushing for the establishment of a revolutionary government (revgov), saying it has yet to take a collective stand on the issue.

In a statement on Saturday, the coalition’s convenors acknowledged that some of its allied members “have organized activities related to the cause” of revolutionary government.

“The alliance respects their stand on this matter and recognizes their right to freedom of speech and expression and to peacefully assemble. However, the Alliance has not taken a collective position on this matter yet,” said the coalition, which was founded by Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio last month to “unite all Filipinos.”

Several public activities supporting the establishment of a revolutionary government have reportedly been lined up by pro-Duterte groups, including a grand rally at the Crocodile Park Concert Grounds here on Nov. 30.

President Rodrigo Duterte has dismissed talks of him declaring a revolutionary government, telling troops in Manila recently that the idea was far-fetched.

“Do not believe talks about coup d’etat, revolutionary coup d’etat. We won’t get anything from that. Let’s just build a country,” Mr. Duterte said.

As a broad alliance supporting the President, TMAP said it abides by the Constitution “and respects the mandate and authority of the three branches of government.”

“The alliance also strongly espouses unity and cooperation among member organizations to ultimately realize the promise of positive change and reform by President Duterte for the country and for the Filipino people,” the alliance said.  —FRINSTON LIM