AFP hands off on Corona issue

CEBU, Philippines - The Central Command has expressed full support for President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino but assured the public that they would not meddle with the political problem currently hounding the judiciary and the executive department.

CentCom Commander Lt. Gen. Ralph Villanueva’s assurance came after Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona was impeached earlier this week, which have seemingly divided the country.

Villanueva said that they are “very aware” of the problem but will not dare “meddle” with politics.

“We have nothing to do with the political problem. Bayaan na natin sila (politicians) to deal with the matter,” Villanueva said. 

He said they know the problem and they are also keeping a tight watch on what is happening, but they will remain detached from the problem.

“Although we are aware on what is happening, we just need to focus on our job to maintain peace and order,” Villanueva said.

“In any democracy, this would happen, and it is under the constitution, and we need to respect this,” he added.

Compared to Manila, according to Villanueva, the situation in Central Visayas is definitely different. “Ang situation here in the Visayas is detached from what is happening in Manila – okay tayo dito,” he said.

But despite keeping their distance from the problem, Villanueva clarified that they completely support Aquino in his endeavors as their chief and as president of the country.

Police Director General Nicanor Bartolome who recently visited Cebu, shared Villanueva’s views on being distant from the rift between the two branches of the government.

Bartolome said they have “their own mandate to follow” which they should focus on, no matter what happens with the rift between Aquino and Corona.

“We should not be distracted sa nangyayari ngayon, kung ano ang trabaho iyon lang ang dapat nating gawin,” he said. — (FREEMAN)