MANILA, Philippines — As rumors swirl that he is being eyed to head a civilian-military junta, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong yesterday said there is no brewing coup, although he acknowledged discontent within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), particularly among retired and junior officers.
He was quick to dispel fears of any imminent “unconstitutional” action, attributing the unrest to patriotism of retired and active members of the uniformed services rather than political ambition.
“I myself have personal experience,” Magalong bared during an interview on The STAR’s “Truth on the Line,” referring to conversations and encounters that shed light on the frustrations brewing within retired and active military and police circles.
But he emphasized that these sentiments are not politically driven.
“The frustrations stem from love of country,” he said.
While he acknowledged the tensions, Magalong was firm in his belief that the AFP remains a professional institution bound by democratic principles.
“The AFP will never act outside the law,” he said. “Unless there is a very compelling reason.”
Magalong’s comments come amid growing speculation on social media and in political circles regarding possible unrest within the military as the nation is beset by various national controversies, especially the flood control scandal.
Security experts have noted rising political noise in recent months, but no confirmed threat has been identified.
The Department of National Defense and the AFP leadership have also repeatedly affirmed their loyalty to the Constitution and civilian authority.
‘Marcos Jr. impeachment not a House priority
Speaker Faustino Dy III yesterday said the impeachment against President Marcos is not a priority.
“An impeachment now is not a priority because we are facing so many problems in our country,” Dy said over dzMM when asked about a post by Cavite Rep. Kiko Barzaga in connection with his reported plans to file an impeachment complaint against Marcos for alleged “betrayal of public trust.”
Dy also said that as of the moment, Barzaga has not formalized his impeachment complaint against Marcos.
Deputy Speaker Rep. Ronnie Puno agreed with Dy, saying the House and the national government are more focused on finding solutions to the many problems facing the country today.
Puno said Barzaga can file the impeachment complaint against Marcos, but he doubts if Barzaga will get enough number of congressmen to support his complaint. – Jose Rodel Clapano