AFP reactivates Counterintelligence Group vs destab, sabotage threats

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Friday said its Counterintelligence Group (CIG) has been reactivated to prevent possible destabilization and sabotage efforts against the government.

AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla told GMA News Online that the reactivation of the CIG became effective Jan. 11.

"It was reactivated effective January 11, 2024 with the mission to conduct counterintelligence support nationwide in line with the AFP's mission," she said in a message.

From being limited to counter-destabilization, Padilla said, the tasks of the CIG have been expanded to "counter-infiltration, counter-espionage, and counter-sabotage."

Padilla said the CIG was disbanded during the Ramos administration and the Presidential Task Force on Intelligence and Counterintelligence (PTFIC) was created.

In a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon public briefing, Padilla was asked why the CIG was deactivated and reactivated only now.

"Ang AFP po kasi every year, for a period of years, we have different campaign plans, and, of course, depends on threat situation, nava-vary po. So iyong units po natin will also adjust to the pressing situation,” she said.

(Every year or for a period of years, the AFP has different campaign plans, and, of course, depending on the threat situation. It varies. So our units will also adjust to the pressing situation.)

"So ngayon ibinalik po siya based on the pronouncement din po na we will enhance our intelligence gathering measures," she added.

(So now the AFP has brought it back based on the pronouncement that we will enhance our intelligence-gathering measures.)

Last Thursday, AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. led a ceremony for the CIG's reactivation at the military's General Headquarters.

He stressed CIG's importance in ensuring security in an ever-shifting global landscape as he encouraged its personnel to do their best on the job, welcome innovations, and keep their integrity.

"To the valiant men and women of the AFPCIG, the security of our beloved nation rests upon your capable shoulders," Brawner said.

"Your tireless efforts will ensnare any threats and guarantee the safety of our treasured citizens. May the AFP Counterintelligence Group ascend to unimaginable heights, preserving the rights and liberties of our great nation," he added.

Earlier this month, the AFP dismissed rumors of a destabilization plot against the administration of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. — VDV, GMA Integrated News