Brawner: Military will comply with Charter

As protesters scheduled a series of rallies billed as massive until the end of the month, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday emphasized its commitment to the Philippine Constitution.

“With full conviction, I assure the public that the armed forces will not engage in any action that would violate the Constitution. Not today, not tomorrow, and certainly not under my watch,” said Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner.

He stressed the security sector was monitoring and validating information that “may affect public safety or constitutional order” in coordination with partner agencies.

Ahead of the rallies, rumors of destabilization are circulating.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo earlier said it will hold a three-day rally at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila from 16 to 18 November, while the United People’s Initiative is expected to gather 300,000 at the People Power Monument on Edsa in Quezon City.

The commanding officers of the Army and Navy have echoed Brawner.

“As unfounded speculations continue to circulate, we fully support and adhere to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ commitment to integrity, unity, and respect for civilian authority,” commanding general of the Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete said in a statement.

He added that the Army is ready to assist the Philippine National Police to maintain peace and order, emphasizing that it is firmly focused on defending the country against external threats.

“We firmly reject lawless and unconstitutional actions that will undermine our national security and stability,” he said.

Nafarrete urged the organizers and protesters to prioritize their own well-being and the safety of the participants to ensure the peaceful and safe exercise of the freedom of speech and expression.

In a separate statement, Navy Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta urged the protesters to ensure that their demonstrations remain “safe, orderly, and true to their purpose.”