The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it has not verified any credible or imminent threat of a “military-backed People Power” movement, amid reports of alleged recruitment efforts involving retired military personnel.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the organization remains on alert but stressed that current information has not reached the level of validated intelligence and should not cause public alarm.
“The PNP maintains a high level of alertness, but as of now, we have no validated intelligence indicating a credible, imminent threat of a military-backed movement. We treat these reports as rumors until proven otherwise,” Nartatez said.
His statement came after Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo “Ping” Lacson downplayed concerns over alleged efforts by groups, reportedly composed of retired military officers, to recruit personnel for a possible “People Power”-style political action. Lacson, a former PNP chief, said such concerns should remain within constitutional and democratic processes.
He also cautioned against attempts to bypass legal institutions, stressing that grievances over governance issues, including corruption, must be addressed through lawful means.
The PNP reiterated that it remains focused on its mandate to maintain peace and order, distancing itself from political speculation.
“Our loyalty is to the Constitution and the Filipino people, not to any political faction. Ang trabaho namin ay siguraduhin ang kaayusan sa kalsada at komunidad,” Nartatez said, adding that the police force remains professional and focused on its anti-crime operations.
The police also said coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) remains stable, with both institutions committed to the chain of command and national stability.
“We continue to work closely with the military, and both organizations remain committed to the chain of command and the stability of the administration,” Nartatez added.
Authorities said monitoring continues, but there is no confirmed threat that would warrant heightened public concern.