Noy tells soldiers to remain apolitical

From the Daily Tribune (Dec 19): Noy tells soldiers to remain apolitical

President Aquino yesterday reminded government troops not to allow themselves to be used by politicians for their own interest during the 2016 national elections.

He lamented the “old trade” in the Armed Forces as he challenged those who are real to their duties not to be swayed by those who will attempt to derail their reputation.

“As 2016 nears, and we know that in times of elections, there would be those who would force to use you for their personal interests. The call of our countrymen is that it is our job to assure the fairness of the upcoming polls. Your ranks are expected to stay on the side of the people,” Aquino said during the 79th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

He added the military is now in a virtuous cycle, which Aquino claimed was his achievement as he claimed to have strengthened the trust and confidence of the people to the military.

According to the Chief Executive, AFP units should not forget their obligation to the people and that they “should not be tempted or be dragged by anyone seeking to derail them from the straight path.”

“Now, the support of the state and the people are solid behind you. To those who wish to bring the institution back to the old trade: Be ashamed of yourself, and be warned. Reforms won’t stop and our drive won’t ever stop to ensure that all corrupt entities will be punished,” he added.

Vice President Jejomar Binay, a presumptive presidential candidate of the opposition in the 2016 polls, was among those present in the event.

During the 2004 polls, high-ranking military officials were accused of taking part in election rigging to favor former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Meanwhile, Aquino lauded the soldiers for their service to the country, citing their role in protecting the sovereignty of the Philippines, in fighting the insurgents and extremist groups, and being first responders whenever disasters hit the Philippines.

He also stressed that the modernization of the AFP continues, as benefits to be reaped by members of the Armed Forces have been expanded.

To improve the welfare of uniformed men and their families, Aquino said, the government is enhancing its housing program, the livelihood program in Fort Magsaysay for active and retired servicemen, and the pension system for retired personnel.

Aquino further promised that the government would do everything to help the AFP improve the skills and capabilities of its members to strengthen the institution’s professionalism and integrity.

He added that the government is addressing the uniformed men’s lack of skills and equipment through the capability development and professionalism enhancement programs under the AFP Transformation Road Map, and the acquisition of new ships, helicopters and fighter jets.

“It is clear: The government brings to the extent the opportunity to strengthen your ranks and deliver appropriate benefits for you. We are pushing reforms to bring full service to you who are part of the AFP, and to your families,” he said.

Other guests at the event were Senate President Franklin Drilon, US Ambassador Philip Goldberg and former President Fidel V. Ramos.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/noy-tells-soldiers-to-remain-apolitical