The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday denied issuing any guidance that would limit civilians and families of military personnel from expressing political views on social media.
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has not issued any guidance restricting the freedom of expression of civilians, including the families of military personnel, on social media,” the military said in a statement after a social media post claimed that an alleged memo was released by the organization, reminding soldiers and their dependents to avoid posting or commenting on social media about current political matters.
The AFP also clarified that the recent visits made by AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. “were focused on reinforcing the importance of professionalism, discipline, and mission focus among our personnel.”
“These internal engagements are vital for strengthening the AFP's core values and operational effectiveness,” it further stated.
The AFP’s statement came after the circulation of a supposed memorandum, dated March 17, 2025, from the Philippine Army’s (PA) 10th Infantry Division (10ID) on social media, claiming that AFP Brawner had ordered unit commanders and office chiefs to remind their personnel, as well as their dependents, to “avoid unnecessary posting/commenting on social media regarding the current political situation and just focus on their respective job/task/mission.”
In response to the alleged memo, a statement from a supposed dependent of Army personnel called Army Ladies’ Club was also circulated online.
The group asserted their right to freedom of expression.
"Most of us are not government employees, which makes us civilians outside the chain of command," it said.
In response to the group, AFP Public Affairs chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said the military organization has not issued “guidance or restriction” preventing civilians from expressing their views on social media.
He then highlighted the importance of responsible online engagement.
“With the rise of disinformation, we encourage both our troops and the public to be discerning in their social media activities to avoid being misled or unintentionally spreading false information,” Trinidad told the Daily Tribune in a Viber message.
Trinidad said the AFP reaffirms its “commitment to upholding the freedom of expression of all citizens, including civilians associated with the military.”
“Our focus remains on reinforcing professionalism and discipline within the ranks and ensuring that both our personnel and the broader community are equipped to responsibly engage in online platforms,” he added.
Meanwhile, Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala stressed the importance of staying focused on their primary duty of safeguarding the nation's sovereignty, without getting involved in political conflicts or partisan issues.
“As members of the Philippine Army, we are entrusted with the responsibility to serve and protect the nation with the utmost dedication, discipline, and professionalism. It is imperative that we remain focused on our duty to safeguard the sovereignty of our country, without becoming entangled in partisan politics,” he said in a separate Viber message.
Dema-ala said the Philippine Army remains a non-partisan institution and its personnel must refrain from engaging in any political activities, expressing political statements, or promoting political views.
“They need to resign first before they can express their sentiments for us to protect the organization as the last bastion of stability,” he added.
Further, the Philippine Army Officers' Ladies Club, Inc. (PAOLCI) released a statement distancing itself from the position taken by the “Army Ladies Club.”
“The Philippine Army Officers' Ladies Club, Inc. (PAOLCI) is issuing a statement to clarify its stance on social media posts made by a group calling themselves Army Ladies Club. PAOLCI, the official organization representing the legal spouses of Philippine Army Officers, dissociates itself from any posts that don't align with the sentiments of legitimate military dependents,” the group said in a statement.
PAOLCI emphasized that promoting divisive or prejudicial content is not aligned with the values or beliefs of military dependents.
“As an organization, PAOLCI values responsible and respectful online behaviors. It respects the differing views of its members and acknowledges the responsibilities of their spouses,” it stated.
PAOLCI urged the public to be cautious and responsible when posting online as well as foster a “culture of respect and empathy.”
“The organization is committed to upholding its mission of enhancing the welfare of Army families through projects in education, livelihood, and health,” it said.