AFP pulls out security escorts of politicians, government execs

MANILA, Philippines - The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has recalled all troops deployed as security personnel of politicians, government officials and civilian personalities.

Col. Noel Detoyato, AFP Public Affairs Office (PAO) chief, said a recall order was issued last December in line with the military’s overall preparation to ensure orderly and peaceful national and local elections in May.

“I just don’t know the exact number of the recalled troops but they’re now all back to their respective mother units. The directive was issued last December,” Detoyato said.

At Camp Aguinaldo, more or less 100 soldiers previously detailed as close-in security of lawmakers and other government officials have reported back to the AFP’s Special Detailed Unit (SDU).

Across the country, field troops doing security duties for provincial governors, city and municipal mayors as well as prominent civilian personalities who are under threat have also been accounted for at their respective units. With Cecille Suerte Felipe, Alexis Romero