AFP denies issuing guidance vs freedom of expression on social media

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday dismissed claims regarding its alleged guidance to restrict the social media posts of military personnel and their families in connection with the country's current political situation.

"The AFP has not issued any guidance restricting the freedom of expression of civilians, including the families of military personnel, on social media," the military organization said in a statement.

While it upholds the right to freedom of expression for all citizens, the AFP said it encourages responsible online engagement and critical evaluation of information to prevent the spread of disinformation.

"The AFP remains dedicated to transparency, professionalism, and constructive engagement with both its personnel and the public," the AFP said.

In a separate statement, Philippine Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala said soldiers should remain focused on their duty to protect the sovereignty of our country "without becoming entangled in partisan politics."

"The Philippine Army is a non-partisan institution, and its personnel must refrain from engaging in any political activities, expressing political statements, or promoting political views," Dema-ala said.

"They need to resign first before they can express their sentiments for us to protect the organization as the last bastion of stability," he added.

Dema-ala told GMA News Online that the Philippine Army made the statement in response to a social media post with a document containing an instruction to restrict social media posts of their personnel and their families.

A photo of a document with a letterhead of Philippine Army's 10th Infantry (Agila) Division was uploaded Tuesday on a post of Facebook user named "SirGen TheLion."

The subject of the document read: "Reminders in Posting and Commenting on the Social Media."

"In the references, pertains to the directive of CSAFP that all Unit Commanders and Chief of Offices to remind all personnel (to include their dependents) to avoid unnecessary posting/commenting on social media regarding current political situation and just focus on their their respective job, task, mission," the document read.

AFP Public Affairs Office chief Colonel Xerxes Trinidad said the AFP issued its statement to reaffirm its commitment to upholding the freedom of expression of all citizens, including civilians associated with the military.

"It aims to clarify that no guidance or restriction has been issued preventing civilians from expressing their views on social media," Trinidad told GMA News Online.

"Our focus remains on reinforcing professionalism and discipline within the ranks and ensuring that both our personnel and the broader community are equipped to responsibly engage in online platforms," he added. — VDV, GMA Integrated News