Flag officers deny rifts in military

MANILA, Philippines - A group of active and retired flag officers yesterday called on the public to ignore rumors about the supposed rifts within the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and gave assurances that the military will remain solid and professional.

In a statement, the Association of General and Flag Officers (AGFO) dismissed the intrigues as part of the efforts to divide the AFP.

“Let us not dishonor the sacrifices and memories of our brave men and women in the AFP by giving dignity to these untruths,” AGFO said.

AGFO said it supports the leadership of AFP chief of staff Gen. Delfin Bangit as well as the drive to ensure a clean and honest election on May 10.

Speculations about the supposed divisions within the AFP escalated after President Arroyo appointed to key military posts members of the Philippine Military Academy Class ’78, of which she is an honorary member.

Previous reports claimed that the appointments triggered discontent among the bypassed members of Class ’77.   –