By Patrick de Jesus | PTV News
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. warned that a military takeover would bring more consequences for the Philippines.
This comes amid calls from some retired military officers for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to withdraw support from the government over alleged corruption issues, particularly in flood control projects.
“Kung magkaroon ng extra-constitutional na galaw, hindi ka ire-recognize ng ibang mga bansa. I-freeze ’yung accounts mo, hindi ka maaaring makipag-negosyo, hindi ka puwedeng mag-remit, so papaano ka mabubuhay? Ang bubuhay lang sa’yo kakaunting bansa,” Teodoro said during a chance interview in Makati City on Thursday, likening the situation to Myanmar’s military junta since 2021 which “Filipinos would not like.”
He added that the motive of those calling for a coup should be examined carefully.
“Sino ang makikinabang? Be careful of what you pray for. You may just get it,” Teodoro stressed.
The Defense chief also noted that retired soldiers could lose their pensions due to misinformation and seditious statements if they are charged and convicted.
“It is up to the courts,” he said.
The AFP has previously clarified that the revocation of pensions is not meant to curtail freedom of speech but to ensure that no laws are violated.
“Pensions are a reward for faithful service, not a permanent entitlement regardless of conduct,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Padilla said during a briefing on Tuesday.
—av
