The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday said the arrest of retired Philippine Air Force (PAF) Major General Romeo Poquiz was carried out through lawful means, reflecting the “primacy of the rule of law and the authority of established legal institutions.”
In a statement, the military said a civilian court issued a valid arrest warrant against Poquiz for the charge of inciting to sedition—referring to acts that encourage others to commit acts that would overthrow or resist government authority—filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
“The AFP reiterates that while freedom of expression is protected by the Constitution, it must be exercised within legal bounds. Acts that incite participation in rebellion, sedition, or other unlawful activities are punishable under Philippine law, regardless of an individual’s former position or status,” the AFP said.
Poquiz was arrested by the police upon his arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 on Monday. He was taken into custody based on a warrant issued by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 77 for inciting to sedition under the Revised Penal Code.
The case is linked to Poquiz’s participation in anti-corruption protests held in November 2025, where he appealed to members of the military to withdraw their support from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. amid allegations of corruption in flood control projects.
The military said that no individual is above the law, regardless of rank or past service, emphasizing that the enforcement of court orders is a legal duty and not a political act.
“The AFP has consistently expressed support for the nation’s pursuit of good governance and integrity in public service. However, the fight against corruption must be pursued through established legal mechanisms and constitutional processes,” the AFP said.
“As a professional and non-partisan institution, the AFP remains committed to constitutional order, respect for lawful processes, and the maintenance of peace and stability, and calls on all Filipinos to pursue their advocacies through peaceful and lawful means,” it added.
The military also said that calls for accountability and good governance should be pursued through lawful and constitutional channels, warning that extra-legal actions weaken democratic institutions instead of strengthening them.
Poquiz acts as the spokesperson for the United People’s Initiative (UPI), a civic group composed mainly of retired military and police officials, along with other sectors, which emerged as an anti-corruption and accountability movement.
