Magalong disowns coup rumors, affirms AFP’s loyalty to democracy

Amid rumors that he is being considered to lead a civilian-military junta, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong dismissed speculations of any brewing coup, saying there is no “unconstitutional” movement within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

While acknowledging that discontent exists among retired and junior officers, Magalong attributed the unrest not to political ambition but to a deep sense of patriotism.

“I myself have personal experience,” Magalong said in an interview, referring to private conversations and encounters that revealed the frustrations of both retired and active military and police personnel.

He clarified that the sentiments do not translate into a desire for power or rebellion. 

Despite the rising political noise, Magalong underscored his confidence in the AFP’s professionalism and loyalty to democratic principles. 

“The AFP will never act outside the law….unless there is a very compelling reason,” he stressed.

Security analysts have acknowledged the increased tension but stated that there is no confirmed threat of military action. 

Magalong’s comments coincide with growing speculation in political circles and online about potential discontent within the ranks amid national controversies, such as the purported flood control ghost projects.

The Department of National Defense (DND) and the AFP leadership have likewise reaffirmed their constitutional allegiance amid calls for the military to withdraw support from the government. 

“The DND, together with the AFP, is fully committed to upholding the tenets of the constitution and our mandate to the Filipino people,” DND Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said in a joint statement on September 12.

They emphasized that the military is still a nonpartisan, professional institution and described calls for military action as pointless, reckless, and driven by politics, while also claiming that these kinds of diversions simply serve to take the AFP away from its fundamental objective, which is to uphold peace and stability.  

Both military and civilian authorities have attempted to reassure Filipinos that the chain of command and democratic rule are still firmly in place while national scandals continue to spark public discussion.