The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has placed all of its units on red alert as nationwide protests intensify over alleged large-scale corruption in flood control projects.
AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla confirmed in an interview with dzBB on Sunday that the alert has been in effect since September 12. She clarified that the measure is “standard security protocol” and urged the public not to panic. “We would like to emphasize that the public has nothing to be alarmed about,” Padilla said.
Under the red alert status, AFP personnel are on standby in camps and all leave privileges are suspended. Padilla stressed that while the military respects the people’s right to peaceful assembly, it will not tolerate attempts to exploit demonstrations for violence or political instability.
The AFP, along with the Department of National Defense (DND), also pushed back against calls for the armed forces to abandon government support. “The solution must be found in our democratic institutions and rule of law, not through extra-constitutional means,” Padilla added.
In Metro Manila, the Philippine STAR reported that the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) is considering raising its own alert status ahead of September 21 rallies commemorating martial law. NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin said a “security template” is already in place, though turnout in recent protests has been relatively small. He also denied reports of tighter border controls, saying routine checks remain unchanged.
Beyond the capital, students and faith groups are joining the clamor. In Cagayan de Oro, Xavier University–Ateneo de Cagayan students took to the streets on Saturday, declaring, “Corruption kills. Every peso stolen deprives us of essential services,” according to Central Student Government adviser Luis Nicholai Wong. Meanwhile, the San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral in Negros Occidental announced a “Walk Against Corruption” prayer march on September 20, urging participants to wear white and carry placards.
Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Santos also released a pastoral statement reminding public officials that “Thou shall not steal” is not a suggestion but a commandment. He insisted that corrupt politicians and contractors “must return what they have stolen, face the courts of justice, and ultimately, the judgment of God.”
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla told reporters the PNP is assisting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) with security during ongoing inspections of flood control projects, citing credible threats. “We will just be on the security side,” he said.
