Escudero urges AFP, PNP to stay apolitical over Duterte arrest

Senate President Francis Escudero on Monday, March 24 reiterated his call for members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to remain apolitical and committed to their duties.

Vice President Sara Duterte had questioned why the military did not intervene when her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, was arrested at Villamor Air Base under Philippine National Police control.

Escudero expressed confusion over Vice President Duterte's concerns and stressed that dragging the military into political issues is unnecessary.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro earlier clarified that the AFP’s role in law enforcement operations must be strictly adhered to national security guidelines and the chain of command, with no room for political involvement.

Escudero emphasized that the AFP should remain neutral and not take sides in political disputes, urging both camps to refrain from politicizing the military.

The Senate president also noted that he saw no issue with Vice President Duterte staying in the Netherlands as long as she is prepared to fulfill her duties if needed.