Philippine Diocese Expresses Support for Armed Forces, Calls for Peaceful Resolution of National Situation

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Cubao issued a statement on November 15 expressing its support and solidarity with the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as the country faces what it described as a challenging national moment.

The statement, released by Bishop Elias L. Ayuban Jr. on behalf of the clergy, consecrated persons, and lay faithful, affirmed confidence in the AFP’s role in upholding the Constitution and the rule of law.

“We… express our support and solidarity with the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as they continue to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law,” he said. 

Ayuban underscored the Diocese’s commitment to defending democratic institutions and supporting efforts that promote peace, order, and unity. 

“We stand firmly for the defense of our democratic institutions and the Filipino people, especially in these challenging times,” the statement read.

He also offered prayers for the country’s leaders and institutions. 

“We pray for the peaceful and lawful resolution of the present situation our country faces. May the Lord of peace and truth guide all those entrusted with the protection of our nation.”

AFP Chief of Staff Romeo Brawner Jr. confirmed that the AFP’s intelligence community is looking into reports on the alleged involvement of several government officials and retired military officers in destabilization plots.

“We take this seriously. When there are supposed destabilization plots, of course we will look into it seriously,” Brawner told reporters in Filipino. 

He said the military’s intelligence unit has yet to submit its findings, “but they are already conducting their investigation, especially on the possible involvement of active members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.”

The Diocese’s statement comes amid growing calls for calm and adherence to constitutional processes as political tension continues to rise.

Strains between the camps of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte began after  former president Rodrigo Duterte publicly accused Marcos of alleged drug use.

The divide deepened after Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 11, 2025 under a warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) and transferred to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity.  His arrest markedly escalated the political dynamics between the two camps.

In recent months, political noise has intensified, with both camps mobilizing supporters and issuing increasingly pointed statements, including trading accusations of corruption, adding to national uncertainty.