Malacañang backs Escudero's call for AFP to remain apolitical

On Tuesday, Malacañang supported Senate President Francis 'Chiz' Escudero's statement that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) should remain apolitical and not be swayed by personal political issues involving the Duterte family.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro emphasized during a briefing that public servants, including the military and police, serve the nation rather than any specific individual or family.

Escudero's comments were in response to Vice President Sara Duterte's remarks about the AFP allowing her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, to be taken to The Hague for crimes against humanity charges related to his drug war.

The Senate President stressed that the AFP should not take sides and must adhere to their chain of command and constitutional duties under the Commander-in-Chief.

On March 11, an ICC warrant was served for former President Rodrigo Duterte's arrest on murder charges as a crime against humanity linked to his drug war, with him currently detained in The Hague Penitentiary.