Philippine military chief assures no political intervention amid Senate turmoil

The Philippines ’ armed forces chief has moved to quell fears of political intervention after a bitter Senate leadership crisis triggered tighter security, stalled military promotions and fuelled concern that partisan groups could exploit “rumblings” inside the ranks.

Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jnr acknowledged unease among some personnel but told This Week in Asia that the military would remain out of politics.

“Political intervention is far from our mandate,” Brawner said on Wednesday. “We will continue to be a disciplined and professional armed forces.”

His comments came as the 24-member Senate remained paralysed by an unresolved leadership row, with two senators both claiming to head the chamber and rival blocs asserting control over its operations.

The dispute has stalled legislation, delayed the promotion of five generals and other military officers and raised the stakes around the Senate’s expected handling of Vice-President Sara Duterte-Carpio ’s impeachment trial.

It has also unfolded against the backdrop of a deepening feud between President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr and Duterte-Carpio, his 2022 running mate, whose alliance has collapsed into the country’s most consequential political rift.

Philippine senators during a consultative meeting to investigate alleged anomalies in flood control projects, at the Senate in Pasay City, Metro Manila on Monday. Photo: EPA