MANILA, Philippines - A top defense official yesterday said declaration of a revolutionary government by President Aquino is an option to restore order in the country.
“When national security is threatened or at stake, a revolutionary government is an option for the President under the Constitution,” Department of National Defense (DND) spokesman Zosimo Paredes told reporters during the weekly Balitaan sa Rembrandt Hotel in Quezon City.
Anytime the national security or integrity is at stake, Paredes said the President is empowered to declare “his own government.”
For his part, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Civil Relations Service chief Maj. Gen. Eduardo del Rosario declared the entire military is in full support of the chain of command, apparently to allay fears that the prevailing political situation could drag the military into the issue that could compromise the security of the state.
“That is a political decision which the AFP is supporting and continue to respect. I think it is just exaggerated but nevertheless, the AFP will simply follow the chain of command,” Del Rosario said.
Paredes expressed his personal opinion that the declaration of a revolutionary government is more convenient than martial law, which requires congressional approval.
He said martial law is more formal while a revolutionary government is more “generic” and anything can happen under such scenario.
Paredes though gave assurance that the AFP will follow the chain of command and will comply with any proclamation made by the President as the commander-in-chief.
Paredes said it requires an in-depth study and consultations with security officials before the President can declare a revolutionary government.
Paredes clarified that at this point in time, there is no need to declare emergency rule because there are no elements present that will justify the proclamation of a revolutionary government.
Paredes made the comment during discussions in the forum over the prevailing political standoff between the government and the Supreme Court over the travel ban against former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who is facing charges of corruption.
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