President Marcos expressed confidence in the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) amid reports of a destabilization plot against his administration.
Unperturbed by the rumors, the Chief Executive urged the police and military to stay dedicated to their oath and to put aside political differences.
“Even if you didn’t vote for me, it’s fine with me as long as you’re professional. Just do your job right. That’s all I ask for from all police, from the armed forces,” President Marcos said.
He made the remarks on the sidelines of the distribution of over P110 million financial assistance to El Niño-affected farmers and fisherfolk in General Santos, South Cotabato, and Sarangani provinces when asked to react to the supposed destabilization plot.
Regarding active high-ranking officials, President Marcos firmly stated that he does not see or receive reports of their supposed involvement in a plot to destabilize his leadership.
“To our police officers, and of course, especially to the officer corps, we don’t see any of the police getting involved in politics like that.,” the President stressed.
President Marcos, however, did not downplay the possibility that an ouster plot is brewing against him, citing it might involve retired officials making the move to kick him out of the office.
“The retired [officials] might be moving, joining in the destabilization activities,” the President said.
Earlier this week, former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV accused retired and high-ranking officials of the PNP of plotting against President Marcos. Trillanes claimed these officials were actively recruiting members of the AFP.
Trillanes stated, “Some active and retired PNP officials have been identified as behind the destabilization efforts. Based on our information, the said officials have already been identified, making it hard for them to move.”
However, Trillanes clarified that no one from the AFP had joined the destabilization efforts.