The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public that it is closely monitoring the situation at the EDSA Shrine while emphasizing its commitment to remaining non-partisan.
According to AFP Spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla, the military is focused on ensuring public safety and maintaining order in the area.
However, the official asserted that the AFP remains committed to its mandate of protecting the Constitution.
The military had earlier appealed not to be dragged into what it described as the noise of politics following the escalating tensions between the Marcos and Duterte camps.
“As our Chief of Staff have already stated, our Armed Forces is united and professional. So with all of these things, we respectfully request that we are shunned away from political issues," Padilla said in a press briefing.
"Marami po tayong issues na dapat harapin na hindi po natin gusto na malihis po ang usapin sa iba’t-ibang ingay na kumakalat," she added.
On the part of the Philippine National Police (PNP), its spokesperson, PBGen. Jean Fajardo, stated that no untoward incidents occurred at the EDSA Shrine.
Around 100 pro-Duterte supporters reportedly set up camp at the EDSA Shrine for a day, where they prayed and voiced their concerns about the current administration.
Fajardo said that they are not dispersing the group because they are not causing any disturbance to traffic.
Meanwhile, Rev. Fr. Jerome Secillano, Rector of the EDSA Shrine, reminded the Duterte supporters to observe proper decorum and respect sacred places such as the church.
“Be informed that we won’t tolerate any unruly behavior and untoward activities that may compromise the sanctity and dignity of the House of God," Fr. Secillano said in a Facebook post on Tuesday.
Fr. Secillano clarified that the supporters are welcome to attend the Mass and visit the church as long as they are praying and not engaging in any activities unrelated to worship.
