The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reaffirmed its professionalism and loyalty to the Constitution on Tuesday amid the ongoing political turbulence in the country.

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla stressed the military was a “united and professional” institution, when asked about the impact of the National Security Council (NSC) reorganization on the troops.

Padilla dismissed allegations the reorganization reflected a power struggle between political dynasties ahead of the midterm elections, calling it “political intrigue.”

“In terms of whether there is a rift, this is a classic case of political intrigue. This narrative holds no water,” Padilla said in a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. “The security sector is united under the umbrella of the chain of command.”

She said the rumors circulating about a rift within the military are being spread by external parties seeking to create headlines.

Last week, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. issued an executive order removing Vice President Sara Duterte and the former presidents from the NSC.

Padilla emphasized that the AFP should be insulated from political infighting.

“We maintain that the Armed Forces of the Philippines is united, professional, and loyal to the Constitution and the flag, and we adhere to the chain of command,” she concluded.