Lorenzana verifying destabilization rumors

MANILA, Philippines— Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Monday said that the Department of National Defense is already looking into the rumors that there is a destabilization plot against President Rodrigo Duterte.

Lorenzana said there truly is a destabilization plot but he clarified that this is initiated by the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army.

He cited that the CPP-NPA started the plot in 2016 and finalized it in 2017.

“It’s because they have an ‘oust Duterte movement that they disseminate within their personnel,” Lorenzana said in Filipino in a televised interview.

Lorenzana clarified that they are verifying the rumors that the members of the opposition are working with the CPP-NPA.

“If other groups are conniving with the ouster move, we do not know,” Lorenzana said.

“We are still verifying these rumors,” he added.

On Saturday, Duterte claimed that the three groups are plotting to oust him.

Vice President Leni Robredo and the opposition Liberal Party subsequently denied these accusations saying they are not working nor in alliance with the group of Sen. Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV and the Communist Party of the Philippines to overthrow the current administration.

The DND chief admitted that he received information that there are “disgruntled” active military officers who are working on a destabilization plot. However, he said they are not seeing any of these.

RELATED: Robredo, Liberal Party refute Duterte's ouster claim

Asked about the current morale of military officials, Lorenzana said they have high morale.

“Their salary just increased, doubled so their morale is high,” he said, adding that the government forces are not involved in any destabilization plot.

Lorenzana said military officials are encouraged to reject calls for any plan to topple the Duterte government.

The rumor on a destabilization plot was revived by Duterte days after he signed the proclamation declaring Trillanes’ amnesty, granted by the previous administration, void.
Trillanes was previously involved in coup attempts against the Arroyo administration.