Malacañang defended President Bongbong Marcos’ recent visits to military camps, stressing that it is his duty as Commander-in-Chief to meet and oversee troops, regardless of current issues.
Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said, “Hanggang may oras ang Pangulo, hindi ito dapat kinukuwestiyon. Wala itong kinalaman kung mayroon mang isyu ngayon.”
Castro added that there should be no malice attached to announcements of increased benefits for soldiers, including higher base pay and subsistence allowances.
“Kailangan lang naman natin ibigay dahil ang kanilang sakripisyo sa bayan, buhay nila ang nakataya,” she said, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their service for the country’s peace and order.
The Palace statement comes after the President met with troops in various military camps and hosted a dinner for military officials at Malacañang, amid circulating rumors of destabilization and calls from certain groups for his resignation.