Malacañang has called on members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines to remain politically neutral as tensions rise in the country’s political landscape, stressing their duty to serve the nation above all else.
In a statement Thursday, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro cautioned soldiers against being swayed by individuals she described as “greedy for power,” alluding to efforts to challenge President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s leadership.
“Sa magigiting natin na mga kasundaluhan manatili lamang kayong walang kinikilingang pansarili o political interest dahil alam ninyo ang tunay na stance ng Pangulo,” Castro said.
“Huwag magpaloko sa mga taong sakim sa kapangyarihan. Walang kasing tamis ang tunay na magmahal at manilbihan ng tapat sa sariling bayan lamang.”
Her remarks followed Vice President Sara Duterte’s speech during the Day of Valor commemoration in Davao City, where she claimed the current state of the nation “has failed Filipino soldiers,” citing the lack of a clear and independent foreign policy.
Castro rejected Duterte’s assertion, saying the administration has consistently upheld national interest and defended territorial rights, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
She emphasized that the Vice President does not speak for the military, describing Filipino soldiers as “intelligent and professional.”
“Kitang kita ito sa pamumuno nina [Defense] Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and [Armed Forces of the Philippines chief] Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.,” she noted.
Castro further suggested that Duterte’s political allies may be expressing frustration after unsuccessful attempts to unseat Marcos and install her in power.
“Ang mandato ng mga sundalong Pilipino ay magsilbi sa sambayanan ng naaayon sa batas at hindi sa political interest ng isang pamilya lamang na nagnanais ng agad-agad na makuha ang kapangyarihan,” she said.