The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday said it will remain firmly within its constitutional mandate and chain of command, responding to public statements by former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson urging AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. to take a public stand against alleged corruption in government.
In a statement, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the military “has taken note” of Singson’s remarks but stressed its unwavering adherence to the 1987 Constitution, particularly the provision that “civilian authority is, at all times, supreme over the military.”
“The AFP operates strictly within a chain of command that is anchored on this supremacy,” the military said, adding that it performs its duties under civilian authority and employs force solely to fulfill its constitutional role as “protector of the people and the State.”
The AFP emphasized that while it consistently supports good governance and anti-corruption efforts, allegations involving civilian governance, public finance, or economic policy fall exclusively under the jurisdiction of civilian courts and oversight bodies, not the military, and must be addressed through established legal processes.
“Within our own ranks, the AFP maintains zero tolerance for misconduct,” Padilla said, noting that valid complaints against personnel are acted upon swiftly through internal mechanisms and proper courts. “We do not shield offenders,” she added.
The military also cautioned against calls for soldiers to engage in partisan politics or act outside the chain of command, warning that such actions undermine institutional integrity.
While respecting freedom of expression, the AFP said it remains focused on its mission and defers political accountability to appropriate civilian institutions.
“At a time when national unity is paramount to defend our sovereignty in the West Philippine Sea, we urge the public to be discerning,” the AFP said, warning against narratives that “masquerade as patriotism” but may align with the interests of foreign entities seeking to encroach on Philippine territory.
Singson, speaking at a press conference on Monday, called on Brawner to publicly denounce what he described as “massive and systemic corruption,” arguing that internal decay, not foreign threats, poses the gravest danger to the country.
He insisted his appeal did not seek to undermine civilian authority or violate the Constitution.
Seeking to avoid legal complications such as a possible sedition complaint, Singson said: “At a time like this, your role becomes critical. I am not asking you to violate the Constitution. I am not asking you to remove the President.
What I ask is far simpler and far braver: announce your stand against graft and corruption in a public place.”
He also said he plans to organize a “one-time, big-time” rally against corruption, with the date to be determined by religious and youth groups.
“Everyone who loves our country will be invited. I will ask them to decide on the date,” Singson said.
The AFP reiterated that it will remain professional, disciplined, and nonpartisan, committed to constitutional order, lawful processes, and the maintenance of peace and stability.
