The Philippine military has asserted unity following the transfer of former President Rodrigo Duterte to ICC custody, dispelling rumors of dissent within the ranks. The police are enhancing security nationwide due to potential unrest, while President Duterte faces serious charges regarding his anti-drug campaign. Despite controversies and protests, the military remains focused and professional in its duties amidst rising tensions.
The Philippine military remains united amidst reports of division following the transfer of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Authorities have assured that despite social media rumors of resignations among military personnel in support of Duterte, these claims remain unverified, according to military spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla. The Philippine National Police is also enhancing security nationwide in anticipation of potential unrest following the ICC’s actions toward Duterte.
The military, consisting of approximately 150,000 personnel, continues to emphasize their commitment to professionalism and adherence to the rule of law. Colonel Padilla urged the public to refrain from circulating unconfirmed information and called for restraint amid the circumstances surrounding Duterte’s legal challenges. Amidst the heightened tensions in the Netherlands, where Duterte was taken, altercations arose between his supporters and opponents during protests.
Duterte is currently held at an ICC detention center in Scheveningen, facing charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial anti-drug campaign during his presidency from 2016 to 2022. The ICC confirmed his custody following thorough medical checks. Concurrently, the Philippine Supreme Court is demanding justifications from government officials regarding the legality of his arrest and the circumstances of his transfer.
During his presidency, Duterte was known for his uncompromising stance against illegal drugs, often encouraging extreme measures among law enforcement. His supporters continue to stand by him, with his family seeking to compel the Philippine government to repatriate him. Meanwhile, military officials have actively dismissed reports of dissatisfaction within their ranks, reinforcing their dedication to the established chain of command.
The Philippine National Police has issued a memorandum to ensure heightened security due to the potential for unrest in the wake of Duterte’s arrest. Nationwide precautions have been implemented to prepare for possible demonstrations. Australia has advised its citizens to exercise caution in the Philippines due to the increasing risk of civil disturbances related to this high-profile case. The continued popularity of Duterte among uniformed services is noted, despite controversy surrounding his administration’s brutal tactics against drug offenders.
Reports indicate significant discrepancies between official police figures and those cited by human rights organizations regarding casualties from Duterte’s anti-drug operations, leading to ongoing debates about the ethics and legality of his policies, which some claim resulted in widespread extrajudicial killings.
In summary, the Philippine military has firmly rejected claims of internal divisions related to the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Officials are urging caution and restraint as tensions rise, particularly in connection with potential civil unrest. As Duterte faces severe legal challenges, the military and police are implementing measures to maintain order while addressing public concerns about social media misinformation surrounding loyalty and resignations within the ranks. The situation continues to evolve amid heightened national and international scrutiny of Duterte’s actions and their consequences.
Original Source: www.benarnews.org
