Palace blasts Digong’s call for AFP to betray Constitution

Former President Rodrigo Duterte’s call for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to overthrow the government has been strongly condemned as “unacceptable.”

“Hindi katanggap-tanggap ang marahas na pang-aagaw ng kapangyarihan upang madaling maluklok bilang Pangulo sa pamamagitan ng pagpaslang, panggugulo at pag-alsa,” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin stated last week, urging adherence to lawful processes.

Bersamin criticized Duterte’s call for the military to abandon their constitutional duties and withdraw support from the current administration. He reaffirmed the Marcos administration’s commitment to governance based on the Constitution and the rule of law, asserting that it will defend its mandate through lawful means.

“The state will act resolutely to go against all unlawful attempts and challenge,” Bersamin said, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to protecting its legacy.

Bersamin also accused Duterte of advancing a personal agenda, claiming the former president’s actions are aimed at positioning his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, as the country’s leader. He described the move as selfish and an affront to the AFP’s professionalism and loyalty to the Constitution.

“No motive is more selfish than calling for a sitting president to be overthrown so that your daughter can take over,” Bersamin said, urging the former president to show respect for the Constitution and cease his “irresponsible” actions.

“Nakakagulat ang garapalang panawagan ni dating Pangulong Duterte sa ating sandatahang lakas na maglunsad ng kudeta laban kay Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.,” Bersamin added, stressing the gravity of the former president’s statements.