The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) dismiss reports on alleged resignations of military and police personnel following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday.

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla admitted that "reports of AFP personnel resigning in support of former President Duterte remain unverified" but assures that the military "remains a professional, unified, and non-partisan institution, committed to its constitutional mandate of defending the nation and serving the Filipino people."

Col. Louie Dema-ala, Army Public Affairs Office Chief. said that there is not need for a loyalty check as the morale of soldiers remains high.

"For now, the morale of the Philippine Army is high and we are a professional organization and we focus in our mandate," he said.

"Yes, no need for a loyalty check, our Amy remains professional and we only focus in our mandate," he added.

Philippine Air Force (PAF) spokesperson Col. Ma Consuelo Castillo said they "have not monitored any unrest nor noted any personnel resignations"

"Our airmen remain alert and ready to perform their duty to maintain peace and security. The PAF Command ensures that our personnel continue to embody professionalism and loyalty to our flag and people, while maintaining absolute political neutrality," she added.

Philippine Navy spokesman Capt. John Percie Alcos also assures "all Filipinos that we uphold the highest standard of professionalism."

"Every sailor and marine will remain loyal to the constitution and to the oath that we took to serve the country and the Filipino people," he noted.

Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo also confirmed that there is no report about police personnel resigning because of the arrest of the former president.

However, Fajardo said that PNP Chief, Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil reminded the police forces to observe "ethical standards and norms" within the organization.

"I was talking with the chief PNP before proceeding here. He said let us just remind our people although they have rights to expressed their views but while they are members of the Philippine National Police, there are certain limit in expressing their views because they are part of the PNP," she said.

"As long as they are member of PNP, they should observe some policy with respect in airing their sentiments in social media," she added.

Padilla also called on the military "continue to remain focused on our sworn duty, upholding the rule of law and the chain of command" while urging the public "to exercise critical discernment and avoid spreading unconfirmed information."

"We call on all Filipinos to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law. Let us prioritize unity and allow the legal processes to unfold. We have full confidence on our institutions to handle this matter with due diligence," she said. Robina Asido/DMS