'Non-partisan' AFP ready assist police during EDSA protests

MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) affirmed it would remain non-partisan as People Power protests are set across the country.

In a statement Monday, February 23, the AFP acknowledged public assemblies marking the 40th anniversary of the EDSA Revolution — the uprising that helped topple the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., father and namesake of the current president.

"The AFP remains firmly committed to its mandate as a professional and non-partisan institution. We do not engage in political activities and remain focused on our core mission of securing the sovereignty of the State and the integrity of the National Territory," the military said.

It added that it respects the people's right to peaceful assembly.

The AFP said the Philippine National Police has primary responsibility for maintaining peace and order during the events, but the military stands ready to assist if necessary.

"The AFP maintains appropriate readiness measures as part of its standard preparedness posture. We remain steadfast in ensuring stability and security while fully respecting democratic processes, civil liberties, and the rights of all Filipinos," it said.

While the AFP has emphasized neutrality in recent years, history shows that a military revolt helped set off the chain of events that led to Marcos Sr.'s ouster from Malacañang.

A failed military coup led by then defense secretary Juan Ponce Enrile and then police chief Fidel Ramos beseeched the Cardinal Jaime Sin for aid. 

Sin urged Filipinos to gather along EDSA to protect the breakaway military leaders — a call that ignited the 1986 People Power Revolution.