AFP professionalism ‘solid,’ says Gibo

Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. on Saturday said there’s no reason to doubt the professionalism of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) amid the current political situation.

“It has never been unsolid, and I have no reason to doubt that they will remain professional and they will follow their duty according to the Constitution — and civilian supremacy remains,” Teodoro told reporters in an interview at Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro earlier said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was confident of the loyalty of the state security forces following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte and his extradition to The Hague, the Netherlands to face charges of crimes against humanity before the International Criminal Court.

“Loyalty check? None, the President is confident. What the administration has done is in accordance with the law,” Castro said.

Reports had surfaced that members of the military were openly expressing frustration over the government’s decision to hand the former president over to a foreign tribunal.

But AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla maintained the military remained a unified and non-partisan institution dedicated to its constitutional duty of defending the nation and serving the Filipino people.

Philippine Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala also said the troops remained in high morale despite being dragged into the current political rumblings in the government.

“We are a professional organization. We are focused on fulfilling our mandate,” he said.

The Philippine Air Force likewise maintained their loyalty to the flag and people, “while maintaining absolute political neutrality.”

In adherence to the chain of command, the Philippine Navy said its personnel uphold the highest standard of professionalism as they “remain steadfast in their duty to ensure the national security and stability.”