- AFP silences critics on FB page, raising questions about transparency and free speech
THE ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) found itself in hot water after disabling comments on its official Facebook page, claiming it was flooded by “trolls.”
However, the move sparked outrage among netizens who viewed the action as an attempt to stifle dissent and avoid accountability.
“We are temporarily disabling features on our official Facebook page to deny trolls a platform for their suspicious activities. Troll farms are a menace to society and we choose not to empower inauthentic actors in their coordinated attempt to spread disinformation and misinformation,” AFP Public Affairs Office chief Col Xerxes Trinidad said in a statement on Wednesday, Nov. 27.
“We understand that legitimate followers will be affected by this temporary move. We extend our sincere apologies for the inconvenience and ask for your patience. We hope for your continued understanding and support,” he added.
The AFP apologized to “legitimate” followers who will be affected by the move.
“Statements, releases, and information on our activities will continue to be posted on our official channels and legitimate media organizations. We call on everyone to report malicious activities online and receive information from reputable sources only,” he further said.
It can be remembered that before the AFP was disabled, the comment section of its Facebook page was flooded with remarks after former President Rodrigo Duterte challenged the military to step up and do something about rampant government corruption.
The netizens who commented also included the hashtags: “#ProtectThePeople” and “#ProtectTheConstitution.”
Also, a cursory look at some of AFP’s past postings showed laughing emojis even on the seriousness of the post.
Previously, Duterte challenged the AFP to protect the Constitution as the country faces a “fractured governance” due to weak leadership and corrupt politicians.
“If you want redress for grievances, there is no urgent remedy. The only one who can fix this is the military. I’ve been president, and I saw the situation. If the president is facing so many mistakes and there’s a fracture in governance, it’s only the military who can correct it.”
“I’m saying it clearly: Only the military can fix this,” Duterte added.
Meanwhile, the AFP said that it remains loyal to the Philippine Constitution and not to any political figure amid tensions between the Marcos and the Duterte camp.
“May panawagan na mag-intervene ang AFP sa nangyayari sa ating pulitika ngayon dito sa ating bayan,” AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. told the media on Wednesday. “Hindi po natin trabaho ‘yun. Ang trabaho natin is to protect the Republic of the Philippines, protect its people, defend our territory, and defend our sovereignty and our sovereign rights,” he added.
Adrian Pascual, a Duterte supporter, penned a scathing open letter over his Facebook account challenging the AFP’s claims.
In his letter, Pascual, who identifies himself as an ordinary tax-paying Filipino citizen, accuses the AFP of attempting to silence legitimate criticism by labeling dissenters as “trolls.” He demands that the AFP provide concrete evidence of their claims within 24 hours and file cases against the alleged troll farms.
“If you reached this decision to disable the comments section (feature) of your official Facebook page because of what you call ‘trolls’ and ‘inauthentic actors’ and their troll farms then you should have real proof of this. Right?” Pascual questions.
Pascual’s letter further criticizes the AFP for seemingly siding with the current administration and failing to stand up for what is right for the country.
He argues that the AFP’s actions are a cheap attempt to reduce the Filipino people to mere trolls simply because they disagree with the AFP’s narrative and policies.
The letter concludes with a powerful statement: “PUTANG INA! Legal yan ayon sa SC decision. Check niyo pa sa G.R. No. 160351.” This refers to a Supreme Court decision upholding the right to free speech, even if it involves the use of strong language.
Pascual’s challenge has resonated with many Filipinos who are growing increasingly frustrated with the AFP’s perceived lack of transparency and accountability. The hashtag #I Am Not A Troll has begun trending on social media, with citizens expressing their solidarity with Pascual and demanding that the AFP address his concerns.
This incident has raised serious questions about the AFP’s commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of Filipino citizens, particularly the freedom of speech. It remains to be seen whether the AFP will respond to Pascual’s challenge and provide evidence of their claims or continue to silence dissent in the name of combating “trolls.”
Photo courtesy of AFP
