AFP vows loyalty to chain of command after Marcos ouster call

AFP vows loyalty to chain of command after Marcos ouster call

MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) vowed to keep its support to the Constitution and chain of command, following an ouster call against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

“The AFP reiterates its unwavering commitment to professionalism, loyalty to the Constitution, and strict adherence to the Chain of Command,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla told reporters in a text message Monday.

She also said the AFP is committed to maintaining peace in the country and remaining impartial.

READ: No destabilization plot vs Marcos admin — AFP

“Our soldiers, pilots, sailors and marines remain dedicated to our mandate of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Philippines, regardless of any political affiliations or individuals in authority,” Padilla said.

“Our duty is to protect the Filipino people and uphold the rule of law, ensuring that peace and development will prevail throughout the nation. We will continue to fulfill these responsibilities with integrity, impartiality, and utmost dedication,” she added.

On Sunday, Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez called on the armed forces to peacefully withdraw their support for Marcos.

READ: Marcos ‘resign’ – Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte

During a rally in the province’s Tagum City, Alvarez said: “Pag sumabog ang gulo sa (Once the conflict erupts in the) West Philippine Sea, there will be countless of dead bodies, there would be unimaginable destruction, famine, hunger.”

“Kaya bago mangyari ‘yan lahat, nakikiusap ako sa inyo (So even before all of that happen, I am asking you), we don’t have to hurt each other, we don’t have to fire a single shot. Simple lang (It’s simple), sa mapayapang paraan (in a peaceful way), please withdraw your support to the chief executive,” Alvarez added, in an apparent address to the AFP.