Military warns soldiers planning coup vs Duterte administration

July 11, 2019

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) warned soldiers planning a coup d'etat against the Duterte administration.

"If in case we have colleagues involved in (ouster) plot, we warn them and remind that they will not succeed because it is no longer the time for that kind of action," said Brig. Gen. Edgard Arevalo AFP spokesman, in a radio interview. 

"If ever there are any AFP personnel contemplating to stage a coup ‘d etat, we warn them not to even make that losing proposition. We will never allow that," he said in a statement.

"We will prosecute vigorously and punish harshly anyone in the AFP who will violate the Articles of War, the AFP Code of Ethics, and the AFP core values of Honor, Service, and Patriotism. We assure our people of that resolve," Arevalo said.

"We will throw the book at anyone who will transgress the immense trust that the Filipino people repose on every soldier, airmen, sailors, and Marines. We will do it to keep that faith", he added.

The warning was made after a Palace official said President Rodrigo Duterte could have information about a possible ouster plot.

Arevalo said the AFP has not monitored any military personnel involved in a  possible destabilisation plot.

"We have not monitored (any) group in active service who have plans for coup d'etat or to destabilize the government. Our armed forces under the leadership of Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. is a mature organization, very professional," he said.

Arevalo added they have not seen any reason for the military to oust the president. Robina Asido/DMS