National Security Adviser Calls for Keeping Military Neutral Amid Calls to Withdraw Support for President Marcos

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año has called for keeping the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) neutral and apolitical in the Philippines. This comes after Representative Pantaleon Alvarez urged the military to withdraw support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Año stated that the Marcos administration is not aware of any secret or gentleman's agreements regarding the country's territories, and that if such agreements exist, they are not binding on the current administration. Año and NSC Assistant Director General Jonathan Malaya emphasized that the AFP and PNP should remain professional and loyal to the current Commander-in-Chief, President Marcos, regardless of any political changes.

They urged Filipinos to stand their ground and push back against any narratives that seek to undermine the national interest and create division in the country. NSA spokesperson Jonathan Malaya dismissed Alvarez's call for the military to withdraw support, saying the armed services have expressed full support for the commander-in-chief. The NSA urged critics to respect the integrity of the military and avoid involving them in political disputes.

Why this matters: The calls for military neutrality amid political tensions highlight the importance of maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the armed forces in the Philippines. The situation underscores the need for unity and stability as the country faces challenges, including China's harassment of Philippine vessels in disputed waters.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas has stated that government appointees must show 100% loyalty to the president, and if they cannot do so, it would be better for them to cut ties with Marcos. The mayor also criticized Vice President Sara Duterte for participating in a rally calling for Marcos' resignation, stating that government officials should not attend such events.

Treñas emphasized the importance of the government and the people supporting the president, especially in the current situation with China's harassment of the Philippines. National Security Adviser Año reiterated the need for the AFP and PNP to remain neutral and apolitical, focusing on their duties to protect and serve the nation under the leadership of the current administration.

Key Takeaways

• NSA Año calls for AFP, PNP neutrality amid withdrawal calls against Marcos
• Año says no secret deals binding current admin on territories
• Malaya urges critics to respect military's loyalty to Marcos as commander-in-chief
• Iloilo mayor says govt officials must show 100% loyalty to president or resign
• NSA reiterates need for AFP, PNP to remain neutral and apolitical