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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Brawner dismisses anew resurfacing coup rumors: 'Not on my watch'

Brawner dismisses anew resurfacing coup rumors: 'Not on my watch'

Published May 28, 2025 10:40 am
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, General Romeo Brawner Jr. (Photo: AFP)
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, General Romeo Brawner Jr. (Photo: AFP)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief, General Romeo Brawner Jr. on Wednesday, May 28, denied rumors of an impending military overtake to unseat President Marcos Jr., stressing it will not happen so long as he is the country’s top soldier.

In a statement, Brawner reaffirmed the military’s unwavering commitment to the Constitution and the chain of command.

“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, shutting down resurfacing “unfounded” claims suggesting internal unrest within the military.

Allegations of internal discord within the military ranks have been swirling again, particularly on social media, after the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte and his ongoing trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands.

Back in January when the military was at the height of preparing for the elections, Brawner had said that military junta “won’t solve the country’s problems” in response to Duterte’s call on the AFP to “correct the fractured governance” of Marcos.

Fast forward to now, the coup rumors gained more traction following the recent midterm elections, where some senators allied with Duterte secured victories while those affiliated with the Marcos administration suffered defeats.

“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 stated.

The military chief likewise underscored the military’s professionalism and its ongoing pursuit of reform, accountability, and internal discipline.

“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,” the General added.

Meanwhile, Brawner warned individuals who stir discord and disinformation about the alleged coup efforts, saying their actions to undermine institutions built to serve and protect the public could have “broader consequences”.

“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 said.

“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.

He 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,” Brawner said.

Related Tags

AFP General Romeo Brawner Jr. coup d\'etat military junta PBBM
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