Defense Department Denounces Alleged Destabilization Plot as Baseless

MANILA – The Department of National Defense (DND) firmly dismissed reports of a purported destabilization scheme against the government, labeling them as a "desperate attempt to propagate falsehood and sow discord" among Filipinos.

Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong, spokesperson for the DND, characterized the claims of a destabilization or coup plot as "utterly preposterous," stating that it only serves to create confusion and fuel adversarial narratives targeting the national government.

These allegations surfaced shortly before the September 21 anti-corruption demonstrations, which emerged in response to recently uncovered corrupt practices related to flood control projects implicating government engineers and politicians.

Reports mentioned that one of the supposed conspirators approached a senior military official in an effort to recruit support for their cause.

Despite these claims, Andolong emphasized that the DND and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) remain steadfastly committed to the country, its Constitution, and democratic institutions. He urged the public to consider who truly benefits from the spread of these rumors and who ultimately suffers.

The spokesperson underscored the necessity for government efforts and resources to be concentrated on improving citizens' welfare, safeguarding national sovereignty, and pursuing national interests.

"We continue to stand with the Filipino people in the pursuit of truth, justice, and good governance," Andolong said. "Let us all remain vigilant against disinformation and malign influence perpetrated by foreign and local entities who seek to divide rather than unite us for the good of our nation."