AFP, PNP WILL REMAIN LOYAL TO CONSTITUTION – PALACE

MALACAÑANG on Tuesday expressed confidence that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) remain loyal to the Constitution, despite efforts by some groups to persuade the uniformed services to illegally withdraw their support from the duly elected government.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has long been aware of attempts by small groups to orchestrate a withdrawal of support by the military and police.

“Matagal na po niya ‘tong nalaman, kahit naman po before pa September 21 ay mayroong mga maliliit na grupo na nagsa-suggest ng ganito,” Castro said during a Palace briefing, referring to the nationwide rallies held in public outrage against the uncovered corruption in flood control projects.

Castro said AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. have affirmed their loyalty to the Constitution and the chain of command.

“According nga po kay Gen. Brawner at Gen. Nartatez ay mananatili po silang loyal sa Konstitusyon at sa chain of command so walang dapat pong ipag-alala ang taumbayan patungkol po dito,” Castro said.

The Palace Press Officer added that President Marcos recognizes the excellence and professionalism of the AFP and the PNP.

“Kinikilala niya po ang kagalingan ng AFP at ng PNP at ang lahat ng kasundaluhan at kapulisan natin, at tiwala po sila na gagawin nila ang dapat at nararapat,” said Castro.