The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is prepared to ensure the peaceful, credible, and orderly conduct of the midterm elections on May 12 after the directive given to the troops by President Marcos Jr.

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla said the military will work closely with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and other concerned agencies to guarantee that every Filipino can exercise their right to vote in a secure and fair environment.

“Recognizing the critical role of the AFP in safeguarding democracy, we stand ready to uphold the integrity of the electoral process, free from threats, intimidation, and violence,” she said.

During the oath-taking of newly promoted AFP generals in Malacañan Palace Thursday, Feb. 20, Marcos called on the military to safeguard the integrity of the upcoming polls.

In response to the Commander-in-Chief’s call, Padilla assured that the AFP will strictly be a professional organization, non-partisan, and uphold its loyalty to the Constitution and the chain of command.

“We will not allow ourselves to be used for any political agenda and will remain focused on our sworn duty to serve and protect the Filipino people,” she noted.

The AFP spokesperson also echoed the Chief Executive’s call to the military that they “cannot fail” the Filipino people this election.

“The AFP remains steadfast in its duty to defend democracy, protect the sanctity of the ballot, and maintain stability before, during, and after the elections,” Padilla said.

The AFP earlier said it would deploy 18,000 troops nationwide to secure the elections.

Meanwhile, Padilla urged the public to report to authorities any suspicious activities related to the elections.

“To the public, we call for vigilance, cooperation, and adherence to lawful and peaceful means in this democratic exercise. The AFP will not waver in its resolve to preserve peace and order, ensuring that the nation moves forward with unity and stability,” she said.

Army warns vs. moonlighting soldiers

Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, commanding general of the Philippine Army (PA), reminded the 115,000-strong Army to refrain from moonlighting as private armies for political candidates lest they want to risk their careers.

The Army chief said personnel who would be caught acting as private armies would face appropriate disciplinary actions which may include dismissal from service.

“The first thing, when you identify one, inform us. Immediately, we will implement disciplinary action and appropriate measures,” Galido told journalists earlier this week.

He said that the military law “is very harsh” as it is not subjected to the rules of court, so the troops should think twice before violating it.