AFP: Our role is to defend the country, not to interfere in political matters

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reiterated Thursday that it was an apolitical organization tasked to maintain the country's stability, following remarks from Vice President Sara Duterte questioning the military's silence over the arrest of her father, former president Rodrigo Duterte.

In a statement, the AFP said it remains steadfast in its sworn duty to protect the Filipino people, defend the Constitution, and uphold democracy.

"The AFP's role is to defend the country and uphold stability, not to interfere in political matters. Any concerns about governance should be resolved through lawful and democratic means," the AFP said.

"The strength of our democracy lies in respecting institutions, following due process, ensuring justice through established legal channels, and selecting executive and legislative officials through elections," it added.

Also, the AFP affirmed that the military organization is a non-partisan institution citing the 1987 Constitution.

"Section 5(3), Article XVI explicitly prohibits military personnel from engaging in political activities. Any deviation from this principle would undermine the very democracy we are bound to protect," the AFP said.

"The AFP stands firm in its duty-always in service of the Filipino People, with unwavering commitment to the Constitution," it added.

During the March 20 hearing of the Senate committee on foreign relations on the arrest of the elder Duterte, the Vice President tagged as "disturbing" the "silence of the Armed Forces of the Philippines" during her father's arrest.

"Why did the AFP stand idly by while a former commander-in-chief was taken from a military base under questionable circumstances? How could they allow a foreign tribunal to override our constitutional guarantees?" the Vice President had said.

AFP public affairs office chief Colonel Xerxes Trinidad said "the AFP will not be swayed by political pressures."

According to Trinidad, the AFP remains focused on its core mission in securing the nation and serving the Filipino people with integrity.

"As the country approaches the upcoming elections, we urge all citizens to participate responsibly in the democratic process—engaging in informed discourse, upholding the rule of law, and voting wisely—rather than resorting to extraconstitutional actions," Trinidad said.

"We encourage all citizens to exercise their right to vote, ensuring that their chosen leaders reflect their values and aspirations. This is the most effective and legitimate way to effect change and hold leaders accountable," he added.

On Wednesday, AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth stressed the military's neutrality, saying its appeal was for the organization "to be insulated from political noise."

Padilla also belied rumors circulating online that there were resignations within the AFP following Rodrigo's arrest.

Philippine authorities on March 11 served a warrant of arrest from the ICC against Duterte for crimes against humanity in connection with his drug war.

After his arrest, Duterte was transported to The Hague, Netherlands.

Duterte on March 13 (Philippine time) entered The Hague Penitentiary Institution or the Scheveningen Prison ahead of his pre-trial proceedings before the ICC. — VDV, GMA Integrated News