New AFP chief vows to remain apolitical

MANILA, Philippines - Newly installed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Lt. Gen. Victor Ibrado said yesterday the military would remain apolitical and not allow itself to be used in the 2010 elections.

“We will do our jobs according to what is prescribed by the law. We will remain apolitical… hindi naman kami magpapagamit (we won’t allow ourselves to be used by anyone),” he said.

Ibrado officially took over the leadership of the 120,000-strong AFP from Gen. Alexander Yano who retired early to take on a new job as Philippine ambassador to Brunei.

Some sectors accused the military of being an instrument to the alleged massive cheating during the 2004 presidential elections to ensure the victory of President Arroyo.

The new AFP chief vowed to always remind soldiers, especially those in the field, to stay away from politics.

Ibrado said he would continue what Yano had started for the AFP and would only initiate changes if necessary.

“All the plans are already laid down there, it’s just a matter of me continuing what has been started by Gen. Yano, and along the way, if there is a need to make some amendments, some changes, some replacement of plan, then maybe we’ll do it, if it’s really necessary,” he said.

Asked what was President Arroyo’s instruction, Ibrado said the Chief Executive wanted him to improve camps, provide scholarships, and continue to establish good relations with the community.

Ibrado’s appointment came amid the government’s efforts to secure the release of Red Cross worker Italian Eugenio Vagni, held captive by Abu Sayyaf bandits since Jan. 15.

Vagni’s two other colleagues —Filipino Mary Jean Lacaba and Swiss Andreas Notter — have been released last month.

Ibrado said the AFP would continue to coordinate with the Local Crisis Committee under Sulu Gov. Abdusakur Tan.

“Governor Tan is supported by our military troops there, by the marines, and we leave it to the ground commanders and Gov. Tan what to do there,” he said. – Cecille Suerte Felipe