Palace on coup rumors: No restiveness in AFP

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Wednesday downplayed rumors of a coup d'état against President Benigno Aquino III.

While he declined to comment on the credibility of the reported military move, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin cited an earlier statement by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) dismissing as false the supposed destabilization plot.

"There is no such truth to the coup rumors," Lacierda quoted AFP spokesperson Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala as saying at a televised press briefing.

Lacierda also said that for a military rebellion to succeed, it should be participated by the active men and women of the AFP.

However, AFP rank and file members are not interested in the rumored destabilization plot since they recognize the Aquino administration's efforts to improve the welfare of soldiers, according to Lacierda.

"There are no restiveness in the Armed Forces of the Philippines," he said. "Walang agam-agam sa loob ng military."

Lacerdia added that the Palace is not bothered by the possibility of those against the President joining the calls for a destabilization move.

"We are not concerned about it. Deadma," the Palace official said, adding that a "loyalty check" among military members is not needed.

According to media reports, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV claimed that some retired AFP generals are plotting to oust the Aquino government.

Lacierda said the Palace respects Trillanes' statements.

Trillanes, a former navy officer was detained during the Arroyo administration for his involvement in the July 2003 Oakwood mutiny. He was also charged for the Manila Peninsula siege in November 2007.