'Military unrest over amnesty grant to rebel soldiers unlikely'

MANILA, Philippines - The new commander of the military’s anti-coup unit yesterday claimed that the possibility of unrest within the armed forces is “very low” despite the grant of amnesty to soldiers tagged in uprisings against the former administration.

Armed Forces National Capital Region Command (NCRCOM) chief Brig. Gen. Tristan Kison said the Aquino administration is willing to listen to any issue that may be raised by soldiers.

“We can feel that there is not much threat against the government. Our government has been very transparent and their (soldiers) concerns are heard,” Kison told radio dzBB in Filipino.

“Our grievance procedure is open and this proves that we are ready to receive their concerns,” he added.

Kison, who assumed post last Dec. 23, said members of the armed forces have no reason to join anti-government uprisings.

“Of course we cannot say that the threat is zero because we cannot read the mind of each person. But given the present conditions, they have no reason to rebel against the government,” he said. “We should not let our guard down but the probability of such threat (military unrest) is very low.”

Kison said the troops are contented with the performance of the chain of command and the national leadership.

Last October, President Aquino signed Proclamation 50 granting amnesty to military personnel accused of trying to oust the Arroyo administration. The amnesty would cover 378 officers and enlisted men including Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, the former Navy officer who led the Oakwood mutiny.