Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said "no coup shall happen" under his watch as he reaffirmed the military's unwavering commitment to the Constitution and the chain of command amid resurfacing of unfounded claims suggesting internal unrest within the institution.
In a statement Wednesday, Brawner underscored the military’s professionalism and its ongoing pursuit of reform, accountability, and internal discipline within the organization.
"As long as I serve as Chief of Staff, no coup shall happen. Not on my watch. We will not be shaken by rumor, nor outmaneuvered by noise," said Brawner.
"Let me reassure our countrymen that the AFP remains strong, professional, and firmly loyal to the chain of command. We are a disciplined institution, grounded in respect for the Constitution, civilian authority, and the rule of law,” he added.
Brawner also expressed "full confidence in the integrity, patriotism, and professionalism of the men and women of the military".
"Isolated grievances do not define the AFP, our collective commitment to service does,” he said.
“We remain committed to protecting the people, preserving the peace, and defending the nation," he added.
Brawner issued his statement amid continued political noise between the administration and the team of Vice President Sara Duterte.
Following the result of the May 12 mid-term elections, Duterte invited the Filipinos to support "a powerful and principled opposition" to shape a "fair and inclusive" future of the country.
On the other hand, the administration vows to fight obstructionists who allegedly hide in the name of oppositionists as they recognize the presence of legitimate oppositionists.
Brawner also reminded those who continue to stir discord and disinformation of the broader consequences of undermining institutions built to serve and protect the public.
“To those who persist in creating instability, I offer this not as a rebuke, but as a reminder. Do not sow doubt among the very ranks that safeguard our democracy. Do not attempt to influence or mislead soldiers who serve quietly, honorably, and with steadfast loyalty to our Constitution and our country. Frustration is not a license to target your protectors. Attacking the Armed Forces with baseless narratives only threatens to weaken an institution that exists to defend us all,” he explained.
“Let us not be adversaries in the same nation we all claim to love. Let us be better stewards of our words, platforms, and influence, because patriotism is not measured by how loudly we speak, but by how wisely we choose unity over division, and nation-building over disruption," Brawner added. Robina Asido/DMS