(UPDATE) THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has been placed on red alert as part of standard security protocols ahead of nationwide demonstrations calling out alleged corruption in government infrastructure projects, particularly flood control.
In a radio interview Sunday, AFP spokesman Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said all units are on standby to support the Philippine National Police (PNP), which has the primary mandate to ensure peace and order during mass actions.
“The AFP respects the right of citizens to peaceably assemble and express their views,” Padilla told DZBB.
“All of the units of the Armed Forces have been placed on red alert status…. This is simply to ensure readiness and support to the Philippine National Police.”
The government mounted a sweeping investigation on alleged anomalies in flood control projects following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive during his State of the Nation Address in July.
Padilla said a red alert requires more personnel to be on standby in camps and suspends leave privileges, underscoring it is a “standard security protocol” and that there is no cause for alarm.
Padilla cautioned against attempts to infiltrate or hijack legitimate anti-corruption protests.
“We will not allow any individual or group to use this situation to sow violence, division, or disorder,” she said.
On reported calls urging the military to withdraw support from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Padilla was categorical, stressing the AFP’s “unwavering loyalty” to the Filipino people and to the Constitution.
“We reject these calls…. The solution must be found in our democratic institutions and rule of law, not through extra-constitutional means,” she said.
