PNP Chief Declares No Basis to Oust Marcos Jr.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is standing by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., with Acting PNP Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. saying there is no basis for a move to remove the President from office. In a briefing on Monday, Nartatez addressed reports that some active and retired officials are pressing for a shift in support away from Marcos amid ongoing political and security tensions.
What Nartatez Said
Asked whether there were conversations—either with civilian leaders, retired armed forces personnel, or PNP members—that would justify ousting the President, Nartatez replied that no such discussions had reached his office or his staff. “Wala pa namang kumakausap as well as my staff and even the regional directors, kasi iyan ang mga pinaka-importante, whether civilian or retired Armed Forces or PNP officials,” he said. This underscores his claim that the police force has not been approached with any credible ouster plan.
“We have a sitting President who won by majority votes. Taas nga, more than 50 [percent] of the voting number ay nakuha niya. So I don’t see any basis para patalsikin,” he added, emphasizing Marcos Jr.’s electoral mandate as a cornerstone for maintaining governance continuity.
Context: Why the Question Came Up
The remarks come on the heels of remarks by Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Romeo Brawner Jr., who disclosed that some retired officers had urged the military to withdraw its support from Marcos. Brawner said the collective grievances focused on governance and calls for a “reset” for Philippine society, including possible uses of intervention to change leadership, though he stressed that no actual movements materialized during the September 21 protests.
Official Stance on Dialogue and Morale
Nartatez signaled his willingness to discourage any talks that could destabilize the government. If someone attempts to recruit the PNP into such efforts, he indicated he would counsel them against it. He also described the PNP’s current morale as relatively high and asserted that the force would act in accordance with what is right, without resorting to loyalty checks. “The state of morale of the PNP is relatively high and we will kung ano yung nararapat, yun ang gagawin namin…No need for loyalty check,” he said.
Implications for Security and Civil-Military Relations
While the president’s legitimacy remains an essential factor for political stability, the episode highlights ongoing sensitivity surrounding civil-military relations in the Philippines. Officials stress that the military and police must remain professional and nonpartisan, focusing on public safety and lawful governance rather than being drawn into political maneuvering. As investigations or political discourse continue, both the AFP and PNP are likely to be watched closely for any signs of alignment or disengagement that could affect stability.
Looking Ahead
As conversations about leadership and governance persist, the safety and integrity of national institutions remain a priority for Philippine security forces. Nartatez’s comments aim to reassure the public that there is no credible basis for ousting Marcos Jr. and to remind officials that any attempts to destabilize leadership should be discouraged. The focus, for now, appears to be on maintaining law and order while upholding democratic processes and constitutional authority.
