Manila: Malaca±ang on Thursday called on the government troops to remain neutral and take an apolitical stance as they serve and protect the nation. In a statement, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro warned soldiers against individuals who are 'greedy for power,' citing the opposition's efforts to unseat President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
According to Philippines News Agency, Castro emphasized the importance of impartiality among soldiers, urging them to avoid aligning with any personal or political interests. 'Sa magigiting natin na mga kasundaluhan manatili lamang kayong walang kinikilingang pansarili o political interest dahil alam ninyo ang tunay na stance ng Pangulo (To our brave soldiers, just remain impartial and free from personal or political interest because you know the true stance of the President),' Castro said.
Castro further cautioned against being misled by those seeking power, stating, 'Huwag magpaloko sa mga taong sakim sa kapangyarihan. Walang kasing tamis ang tunay na magmahal at manilbihan ng tapat sa sariling bayan lamang (Do not get fooled by those who are greedy for power. There is nothing as sweet as truly loving and serving your own nation).'
The statement was released following Vice President Sara Duterte's comments during the Day of Valor commemoration in Davao City, where she criticized the current state of the nation for failing Filipino soldiers, particularly pointing to the lack of a clear and independent foreign policy.
Castro disputed these accusations, asserting that President Marcos prioritizes the nation's interests and welfare, especially concerning territorial rights in the West Philippine Sea. She argued that the Vice President does not represent the entire military force, emphasizing the professionalism and intelligence of the soldiers under the leadership of Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner, Jr.
She suggested that Duterte's allies might be discontent due to their unsuccessful attempt to oust Marcos and swiftly elevate the Vice President to the country's top leadership. 'Ang mandato ng mga sundalong Pilipino ay magsilbi sa sambayanan ng naaayon sa batas at hindi sa political interest ng isang pamilya lamang na nagnanais ng agad-agad na makuha ang kapangyarihan (The mandate of Filipino soldiers is to serve the people in accordance with the law and not the political interest of just one family that wants to quickly seize power),' Castro stated.
