Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. on Wednesday has reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to the Constitution and the chain of command, firmly stating there will be no coup d’état under his leadership.
“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,” Brawner said in a statement in response to the resurfacing of unfounded claims suggesting internal unrest within the AFP.
The top brass likewise underscored the military’s professionalism and its ongoing 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.
“I have full confidence in the integrity, patriotism, and professionalism of the men and women of the military. Isolated grievances do not define the AFP—our collective commitment to service does,” he added.
Brawner also addressed those who continue to stir discord and disinformation, reminding them of the broader 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. 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 explained.
The AFP chief further called for discernment when approaching sensitive topics concerning public institutions and national security, urging citizens 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,” he said.
With these strong words, Brawner reiterated the Armed Forces’ focused mission: “We remain committed to protecting the people, preserving the peace, and defending the nation,” he emphasized.
His statement comes following reports that former President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Sara Duterte still enjoy immense popularity after a recent survey by Pulse Asia found that more than half of Filipinos disagree with the strongman’s arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC) and his daughter’s impeachment.
