AFP Operations Remain Steady Despite Courtesy Resignation
The courtesy resignation of Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. will not affect the operations of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), sources familiar with the matter revealed. The AFP continues to fulfill its duties to protect the country and serve the Filipino people amid the transition.
Officials emphasize that the AFP is a professional institution committed to its mandate regardless of leadership changes. A high-ranking military spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea affirmed, “The AFP is a professional organization. We keep performing our mandate just as other agencies of the government are professional in performing their mandates. Tayo naman kung sino man ang nakaupo sa atin, we keep performing our mandate. Kung sinong maitalaga sa gobyerno, we are full support from the Navy, the Air Force, and the Army.”
Strong Support for Leadership in Defense Sector
The Armed Forces have shown consistent performance over the past three years under Secretary Teodoro’s leadership. Community feedback and surveys indicate a broad understanding and support among Filipinos for the AFP’s and DND’s stand, especially concerning the West Philippine Sea.
“Nakikita ito sa result ng mga surveys na naiintindihan ng ating taumbayan at sumusuporta sila as paninindigan ng DND at AFP in performing its mandate especially sa West Philippine Sea,” a military official explained.
The Navy, along with the other branches, continues to offer full support to Secretary Teodoro. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his position following the President’s request for courtesy resignations from Cabinet members, the military reassures there are no obstacles to their mission.
“Walang roadblocks, the Secretary of National Defense has our full support. Whatever the guidance of the Secretary is as the alter ego of the President in the Defense Department, we fully support it. We have a very robust relationship with our Secretary of National Defense,” the spokesperson added.
Context Behind Courtesy Resignations in the Cabinet
Last week, President Marcos ordered all Cabinet secretaries to submit courtesy resignations as part of his administration’s efforts to recalibrate following recent election results. While some officials, such as the economic team and the Executive Secretary, were retained, resignations from other Cabinet members were accepted, including the UN Permanent Representative and Environment Secretary.
As of now, the President has yet to decide on the status of Secretary Teodoro’s resignation. Meanwhile, the AFP remains focused on its duties, assuring the public that their operations continue uninterrupted.
For more news and updates on courtesy resignation, visit Filipinokami.com.