By Priam Nepomuceno
MANILA – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Wednesday assured that no coup d’état will occur under his watch, rejecting claims of internal unrest within the institution.
“As long as I serve as Chief of Staff, no coup shall happen. Not on my watch. We will not be shaken by rumor nor outmaneuvered by noise,” he said in a statement.
He maintained that the AFP is a professional organization that is actively engaged in the pursuit of reform, accountability, and internal discipline.
“Let me reassure our countrymen that the AFP remains strong, professional, and firmly loyal to the chain of command. We are a disciplined institution, grounded in respect for the Constitution, civilian authority, and the rule of law,” Brawner said.
Brawner added that he has full confidence in the integrity, patriotism, and professionalism of all AFP personnel.
The AFP chief reminded those who continue to stir discord and disinformation of the consequences of undermining institutions built to serve and protect the public.
“To those who persist in creating instability, I offer this not as a rebuke, but as a reminder. Do not sow doubt among the very ranks that safeguard our democracy. Do not attempt to influence or mislead soldiers who serve quietly, honorably, and with steadfast loyalty to our Constitution and our country,” he added.
Brawner also stressed that frustration is not a “license to target your protectors.”
“Attacking the Armed Forces with baseless narratives only threatens to weaken an institution that exists to defend us all,” he said.
Brawner also called for discernment when approaching sensitive topics concerning public institutions and national security and urged Filipinos to differentiate genuine concerns from baseless speculations.
“Let us not be adversaries in the same nation we all claim to love. Let us be better stewards of our words, platforms, and influence because patriotism is not measured by how loudly we speak, but by how wisely we choose unity over division and nation-building over disruption,” Brawner noted.
He also reiterated that the AFP is focused on its mission of protecting the people, preserving the peace, and defending the nation. (PNA)
