Malacañang: Police & Military Should Serve the People, Not the Duterte Family

DUTERTE – Malacañang emphasized that the police and military must prioritize serving the Filipino people rather than advancing the interests of the Duterte family.

Malacañang has strongly opposed efforts by the Duterte family to seek military intervention in their personal and political disputes. On Tuesday, March 25, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro reiterated that the police and military are duty-bound to serve the Filipino people, not any particular political dynasty.

This statement follows Vice President Sara Duterte’s criticism of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for allowing the International Criminal Court (ICC) to proceed with the potential arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. During a Senate hearing, she voiced her concerns over the AFP’s decision not to intervene.

“The public servant should be apolitical. They should not be dragged over these personal issues, especially of the Duterte’s,” Castro stated during a press briefing.

She further stressed that the military and police should not be used as instruments for personal or political gain.

“Ang militar po, ang kasundalohan, ang kapulisan po natin ay para sa bayan, hindi para po sa pamilya Duterte lamang,” Castro emphasized.

Senate President Francis Escudero also weighed in, clarifying that the AFP was simply supporting a law enforcement operation and had no authority to oppose police actions in such matters.

“It’s clear: the AFP was merely assisting in a law enforcement operation. The AFP cannot oppose or clash with the police during such operations. Why are we forcing conflict between the two?” Escudero remarked.

Vice President Duterte’s call for military involvement is not unprecedented. During his presidency, her father, Rodrigo Duterte, questioned the military’s loyalty and whether they would continue to follow President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., leading to allegations of sedition.

While Duterte once held command over the AFP, his authority ended when his term expired. As of now, President Marcos Jr. serves as the commander-in-chief—a temporary role that will eventually pass to the next elected leader.

Additionally, Vice President Sara Duterte does not have any official control over the military unless she is appointed to a defense-related position by the sitting president.

Malacañang’s firm position underscores the importance of keeping state security forces politically neutral, ensuring they uphold the nation’s interests rather than the agenda of any particular political family.