The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is taking preventive measures in advance of the 2025 midterm elections to safeguard against potential foreign interference. The AFP Chief of Staff, General Romeo Brawner Jr., announced that the military is currently conducting background checks on candidates. Through intelligence operations, they aim to identify any "red flags" that may indicate potential issues. If any concerns are found, the AFP will report them to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
General Brawner highlighted that this action is a response to previous instances where candidates who posed security risks were not detected. The AFP is collaborating closely with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Comelec to prevent similar situations in the upcoming elections. By enhancing intelligence efforts, the military seeks to ensure the integrity of the election process.
The AFP's intelligence operations primarily focus on recognizing security threats and thwarting any foreign attempts to influence the political landscape. Information gathered will be confidentially shared with Comelec for appropriate action. The military reasserted its non-partisan position and unwavering dedication to supporting the democratic process without prejudice.
This recent initiative by the AFP comes in the wake of revelations made by the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency concerning former Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo. Guo was identified as an "agent of influence" suspected of leveraging her political position for foreign interests. Following the disclosure, Guo, who had emerged victorious in the May 2022 elections, was removed from office.
