Majority of Pinoys reject military intervention in politics —survey

By Brian Campued

At least seven in 10 Filipinos oppose the idea of any military intervention in politics, reaffirming the public’s trust in the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) professionalism, integrity, and apolitical character, a survey revealed.

Based on the latest Tugon ng Masa survey conducted by the OCTA Research on Sept. 25–30, 70% of Filipino respondents reject any attempt by the military to influence or resolve political disputes. Only 5% agreed, while 22% were undecided.

Across major areas, disagreement with the AFP’s intervention in politics was highest in Mindanao (79%), followed by the National Capital Region (78%), Visayas (71%), and Balance Luzon (63%).

In terms of socio-economic classes, disagreement is highest among Classes ABC (73%), followed by Class D (71%) and Class E (64%).

“These findings affirm Filipinos’ trust in the AFP as a professional and apolitical institution and their enduring commitment to democratic and constitutional governance,” OCTA Research fellow Ranjit Rye said.

The survey was conducted amid calls from some retired military officers for the AFP to withdraw support from the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. over alleged corruption issues, particularly in infrastructure projects.

Department of Defense (DND) Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr. earlier warned that a military takeover would bring more consequences for the Philippines, likening the situation to Myanmar, which has been led by the military junta since 2021.

A group of retired senior officers of the AFP expressed their “full and unequivocal support” to the DND and the military leadership, warning that any “extra-constitutional move, such as a military junta, would be a catastrophic betrayal of democracy.”

In a statement dated Oct. 24, the Association of General and Flag Officers (AGFO) stressed that while it recognizes the public’s indignation against corruption, calling for the military to intervene will not solve political problems.

“We call for sobriety and unity under the Constitution. The only path forward is to demand accountability and fight corruption through the legal and democratic mechanisms our nation provides,” AGFO President Maj. Gen. Gerardo Layug (Ret.) stated.

Recent surveys conducted by OCTA Research revealed high levels of public trust and satisfaction with the performance of the AFP, both at 73%; majority or 80%, likewise continue to prefer democracy despite its problems. (with report from Patrick de Jesus / PTV News)

-av