AFP chief tells troops on DAP: Let it be; let it go

MANILA, Philippines - Let it be. Let it go.

Armed Forces chief Lt. Gen. Gregorio Catapang used these songs, even singing a few lines, to remind soldiers to steer clear from issues surrounding the disbursement acceleration program (DAP). 

Catapang said the songs, one released in 1970 by the Beatles and the other made popular by the animated film “Frozen,” capture the attitude that soldiers are supposed to have towards the controversy.

“The Supreme Court ruled that it (DAP) is unconstitutional. So let it be. It’s like the song of the Beatles,” he said during his visit to the 1st Air Division Headquarters in Clark last Tuesday.

Catapang went on to sing the lines which stated: “When I find myself in trouble, Mother Mary comes to me. Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.”

Perhaps to appeal to young officers in the audience, Catapang said the military’s reaction to the court’s decision on DAP should be to “let it go.”

“For the youngsters, the song is ‘Let it go’ but I do not know how to sing it,” he said.

“That is the ruling and we can’t do anything about it. But this is part of the dynamics of democracy. Let the legal experts share their ideas and opinions while the executive branch awaits the decision on its motion for reconsideration.”

Catapang also rallied support for their beleaguered commander-in-chief President Aquino, who is facing impeachment raps over the controversial program.

“We are in good hands. Our President is taking good care of us so let us help him because he will be giving another SONA (state of the nation address),” he said.

“Let’s pray for him that he will have the determination and the courage to face all these challenges that he is now facing.” 

Catapang also defended the implementation of DAP, echoing the much-repeated Malacañang line that it has helped accelerate the delivery of social services.

“The government felt that it is unconscionable to close its eyes to the problems that can aggravate especially when there is no money made available,” he said.

Catapang noted that the military was one of the beneficiaries of the DAP funds. He expressed optimism that the three branches of government would meet eye to eye on the issue.   

“Their ultimate goal is to serve the country, to serve our people. So I know that after all things have been said and done, these things will be properly reconciled. So let us not intervene. Let’s just work,” he said.

“We should remain professional and non partisan. We should allow the democratic process to take its course.”

Earlier, the Defense department admitted that it received DAP funds worth P665.6 million in 2011 and 2012. The funds were used to acquire military equipment and spare parts, support on-base housing and repair facilities. (with a report from Irene Bongcales)