The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) pledged its all-out support to the Commission on Elections (Comelec) by stepping up its intelligence gathering activities aimed at ensuring the integrity of the upcoming 2025 elections and addressing potential security threats.
In a media statement sent Thursday, AFP Public Affairs Office Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad explained that the intensified intel operations of the military were being conducted in close coordination with the Comelec and the Philippine National Police (PNP).
“The AFP’s role is strictly non-partisan. Our efforts are anchored on impartiality and respect for the democratic process. We hope this clarification provides the proper context to prevent misinterpretation of our actions or statements,” Trinidad said.
During a press briefing at PNP headquarters, AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. shared that background checks on election candidates are part of their intelligence operations. This includes flagging individuals with potential security risks.
“We are conducting background checks on all candidates. If we detect any red flags, we will inform the Comelec about this,” Brawner said.
Brawner also revealed that the AFP is addressing concerns related to private armed groups, “peace spoilers,” and issues surrounding the New People’s Army, including their alleged “permit to campaign” and “permit to win” schemes.
On election day, the AFP will deploy troops and assets to assist the Comelec ensuring the safe transport of election materials and protecting poll personnel in coordination with the PNP.