Military and police reaffirm support and loyalty to Arroyo

By Ronron
June 8, 2005

Different Philippine military units and the national police reaffirmed on Wednesday their support and loyalty to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo amidst fresh destabilization plots hounding her administration which was fueled lately with the release of an alleged taped conversation that implies Arroyo’s manipulation of the 2004 Presidential elections to her favor.

The Philippine Army, Air Force, Navy and National Police issued separate statements yesterday to express their commitment to the duly constituted government under Arroyo and their firm belief that any destabilization plot will not prosper. (See separate story on the Philippine Army’s statement.)

“Your airmen and women stand squarely behind this legitimate government and prepared to defend it against those who would usurp the rule of law,” the PAF public information office said.

Navy chief Vice Admiral Ernesto de Leon, for his part, said: “The navy assures the citizens that all its officers, sailors, marines and special operations personnel are prepared to thwart any attempt to bring down the government or any bid that will undermine the country’s democratic institutions.”

De Leon, an aspirant for the top post in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) once incumbent Chief of Staff Gen. Efren Abu steps down later this month when he reaches the mandatory age for retirement, assured that the Philippine Navy “remains solidly behind the national leadership of the Commander-in-Chief and President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.”

“In these trying times, the Navy is more persistent to prove to the people that it remains true to its oath and that its men and women are more emboldened to take on their task of averting vicious attempts that only do more harm and damage to the State we have sworn to defend,” said De Leon.

The AFP leadership has earlier acknowledged reports that retired generals are sowing disinformation at the lower level so as to discourage them from supporting the government.

But officials are quick to say that these plots will not prosper since they are countering it with information and education campaigns.

“At these times of uncertainty and heightened emotions, we call on our people to be discerning and not be deceived by plots to destabilize our government. We call on everyone to unite for the good and progress of our nation rather than for its disintegration,” the PAF said.

Trusting on the goodness and loyalty of his men, PNP Chief Gen. Arturo Lomibao wooed all policemen that they continue to join hands in assuming their responsibilities for peace and development.

“Let us all continue to serve our Almighty Father, our country, and our countrymen under leadership of our President, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo… My request from you is that we continue to work faithfully, serve truthfully,” Lomibao said in Filipino.

The statements of support came a day after Arroyo hosted in Malacañang a dinner meeting with police and military officials who belong to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) classes of 1973 up to 1978./DMS