DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Tuesday has ruled out any credible threat from a so-called “third force” allegedly plotting to seize power and establish a civilian-military junta.
“There’s none. You know, as responsible citizens, why don’t they execute the proper affidavit and file it with the law enforcement and prosecution officials so it can be investigated properly, If there really is evidence,” Teodoro told reporters.
Talks about the “third force” spread on social media claiming “disturbing and persistent rumors” about an organization planning to seize power and rule the country through a civilian-military junta.
“Allegedly, bombings or assassinations may be staged and later blamed on the opposition or on groups exposing massive corruption to justify such an unconstitutional takeover,” some of the online posts stated.
The posts also called on “patriots in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)” to repel such acts.
On Monday night, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the military does not “dignify unvalidated social media posts.”
She added that the AFP remains focused on its constitutional mandate and the faithful performance of its duty as protector of the people and the State.
“At a time when our nation must remain united in addressing the possible effects of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, we call on all Filipinos to exercise sobriety, reject disinformation, and refrain from spreading unverified claims that may cause confusion and division,” Padilla said.
She also maintained that the AFP is a professional organization that upholds the Constitution, respects the chain of command, and remains steadfast in its duty to defend Philippine sovereignty, protect the people, and uphold the rule of law.
