Seven in 10 Filipinos oppose military intervention in political disputes, according to a recent OCTA Research survey. The poll followed reports of retired military officers pushing for a coup against the Marcos government. The findings underscore Filipinos' commitment to democratic norms.
The non-commissioned survey by OCTA Research, conducted from September 25 to 30, revealed that 70 percent of respondents do not agree with calls for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to participate in the current political situation in the country. Only 5 percent agreed, while 22 percent were undecided and 3 percent did not know.
Disagreement with AFP intervention in politics was highest in Mindanao (79 percent), followed by Metro Manila (78 percent), Visayas (71 percent), and the rest of Luzon (63 percent). OCTA stated in its analysis, 'The findings make clear that any attempt by the military to settle or influence political disputes would not gain the backing of a majority of Filipinos and would likely be met with broad public opposition.' It added, 'This widespread resistance reflects both the enduring influence of democratic values and the collective memory of past authoritarian rule.'
While the AFP enjoys strong public confidence, as seen in a recent survey on satisfaction and trust in the military, OCTA noted that Filipinos draw 'a clear line' between trust in the military as an institution and support for its involvement in politics. 'The public’s trust rests on the AFP’s commitment to remain apolitical and focused on national defense and not on participating in political disputes,' OCTA said. 'Ultimately, these survey results reaffirm the strength of democratic norms in the Philippines and highlight the enduring commitment of Filipinos to uphold civilian and constitutional rule.'
The survey involved 1,200 respondents with a margin of error of plus/minus 3 percent.
Meanwhile, the Association of Generals and Flag Officers (AGFO), composed of retired senior AFP officers, warned against a military junta and any extra-constitutional moves, calling them 'a catastrophic betrayal of democracy.' 'It would betray the very democratic principles we spent our careers defending and invite devastating consequences that would harm our economy, our international standing, and the daily lives of every Filipino,' AGFO said in a statement on Friday. It expressed 'full and unequivocal support' for the Department of National Defense and AFP leadership.
The group also stated that the military is not the solution to political problems. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. had earlier warned of 'catastrophic consequences' should any group attempt to undermine civilian authority or constitutional order. AGFO president Maj. Gen. Gerardo Layug (Ret.) said the group supports Teodoro’s call for unity and adherence to democratic processes. 'We recognize and share the profound, righteous indignation against corruption. This is not a partisan cause; it is a patriotic duty,' AGFO said. 'However, a clear and unambiguous line must be drawn. To peacefully demand accountability from public officials is a protected democratic right. To exploit these legitimate public sentiments to advance a separate, unconstitutional agenda is a betrayal of the very people and institutions we are sworn to protect.'