The Armed Forces of the Philippines remains fully professional, unified, and non-partisan while continuing to assist in disaster response operations and safeguarding national security, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla said.
In an interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, Padilla said that amid multiple national concerns, including earthquake response efforts and political issues, the AFP remains focused on its mandate and committed to democratic institutions.
She assured the public that the military is stable and non-partisan.
“Ang inyong Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas ay buo po kami. Kami po ay professional, non-partisan po tayo,” she said, adding that the AFP continues to support democratic processes and national celebrations, including Independence Day observances.
Padilla also addressed recent remarks by Sen. Panfilo Lacson suggesting possible frustration within military ranks, including at the battalion or regional level. She said the Philippine Army has already denied the claim, while the AFP continues to monitor the situation.
“At sa ngayon po, wala pong ganyan sa ating hanay. Wala pong usapin tungkol sa destabilization. Buo po kami,” she said.
“Patuloy po tayong gagampanan ang aming trabaho para po patuloy po natin na ma-enjoy itong kalayaan,” she said.
Padilla further said that the military are actively supporting government-led rescue and recovery efforts following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake that affected parts of Mindanao earlier this week.
The Spokesperson said the Office of Civil Defense is leading the overall response, with the AFP deployed to provide troops, equipment and trained personnel.
“Of course, nasa frontline tayo lagi dito sa mga ganitong sitwasyon,” Padilla said, adding that the military’s Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response units are fully mobilized and equipped for such operations.
“All hands on deck tayo dyan sa pagtulong sa ating mga kababayan,” she said.
Padilla also said foreign and local partners who wish to extend assistance are being coordinated through the OCD to ensure an organized response.
“Kung sino man po ang gustong magpahatid ng tulong, we’ll just organize this through the OCD,” she said.
