Armed Forces of the Philippines to Maintain Security Operations During Election Duties

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has announced that it will not halt its internal security operations despite its additional responsibilities in supporting the Philippine National Police (PNP) during the upcoming midterm elections. AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla emphasized in a recent interview on Radyo 630 that the military’s internal security efforts will continue unabated. She stated that the AFP is prepared to fulfill any mandates from the Commission on Elections (Comelec), including conducting checkpoints and securing ballots. Padilla also mentioned that the military will assist the PNP in maintaining law and order to ensure a peaceful and orderly election process. When questioned about the AFP’s stance on political neutrality, especially in light of personnel reassignments due to family members running in the elections, Padilla reaffirmed the military’s commitment to remaining non-partisan, highlighting the professionalism and unity within the organization.