The military and police reiterate that they will not support the push for a revolutionary government by the Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte-National Executive Coordinating Committee (MRRD-NECC), a supporter group of the president composed of 300 members.
MRRD-NECC Spokesperson Bobby Brillantes rationalized that it is timely to have a revolutionary government with Pres. Duterte as the leader as this is the only way to push for change. Their group expressed dismay over the lack of support by Congress for the campaign on Federalism and the fight against crime and corruption.
Philippine National Police (PNP) General Archie Gamboa confirmed that he received an invitation for the meeting of the MRRD-NECC on Saturday, August 22 but he did not attend.
Even Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana admitted he got an invitation but he is not in favor of the group’s movement and it must be investigated.
“It is illegal and unconstitutional. As I said we have a popularly elected President that still enjoys about 80% approval rating.”
The PNP emphasized that it will remain loyal to the constitution. However,
Spokesperson Bernard Banac pointed out that the PNP does not see any reason to arrest those pushing for a revolutionary government but they are closely monitoring the next action of the group.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also stated that it will not support the group’s endeavor.
“The Chief of Staff General Gilbert Gapay assures our citizen that the AFP, as the armed force is constitutionally mandated to protect the people and secure the state, will uphold such sacred obligation and rejects the establishment of a revolutionary government.” AFP Spokesperson MGen. Edgard Arevalo has clarified.
Amidst the lack of support from the government, Brillante stressed that they will not be discouraged to push for their advocacy.
“Hindi kami kailangan komunsulta sa DILG o Malacanang kasi kami ay taong bayan na kumikilos. (We don’t need to consult the DILG or Malacañang because we are the active public.)” – Report from Bea Bernardo
