Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner Jr. said the military resisted alleged calls to turn against the government, describing it as one of the most difficult tests faced under his leadership, as he bid farewell to Western Command (Wescom) on Sunday.
“The real test came in the political environment that we are now facing, when our loyalty was tested by people who wanted us to launch a coup d’etat or to take over the government through a military junta,” Brawner said during a Change of Command Ceremony at the Tactical Operations Wing West headquarters.
He said the military remained firm in its mandate to defend the Constitution and the country.
“But because they knew that we are here to serve, what we knew, we already know. The oath that we took to defend our Constitution, to defend our country—we stood firm. We stood united and we continued to be professional,” he added.
Brawner, who is set to retire in July, said the visit could be his last to Wescom in his capacity as AFP chief.
“I would like to take this opportunity to pay my respects and to just thank you all for the service that you have given the Armed Forces of the Philippines and our country,” he said.
He recalled that the AFP faced several challenges during his tenure but managed to overcome them through unity and professionalism.
He urged soldiers to continue upholding these values, stressing the military’s role as a stabilizing force in the country.
