DND dismisses destabilization plot as ‘desperate lie’

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday night brushed aside reports of another destabilization plot against the Marcos administration, branding them as a “desperate attempt to propagate falsehood and sow discord.”

“The latest lie of a destabilization/coup plot is outrightly preposterous and achieves nothing other than create confusion and pander to adversarial narratives against the national government,” DND spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong said in a statement.

Reports claimed the supposed plot was set to unfold ahead of the Sept. 21 anti-corruption rallies and even involved efforts to recruit a ranking military official.

Andolong said the DND and Armed Forces remain loyal to the Constitution and democratic institutions despite such “malevolent efforts.” He urged the public to be discerning, asking: “Who benefits and who suffers” when such rumors are spread?

He stressed that the government must keep its focus on improving people’s lives, defending sovereignty, and advancing national interests.

“We continue to stand with the Filipino people in the pursuit of truth, justice, and good governance. Let us all remain vigilant against disinformation and malign influence perpetrated by foreign and local entities who seek to divide rather than unite us,” Andolong said.