Military expected more from PNoy, says Trillanes

Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV on Monday confirmed that the morale of the military is “low" following the government’s refusal to declare an all-out war against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) despite the rebel group’s recent attacks that left more than 20 soldiers dead. In a text message to reporters, Trillanes, a former Navy officer, said it is likely that the soldiers are disappointed with President Benigno Aquino III for not coming out with a stronger statement regarding the issue. "It is true that the morale is low among the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) ranks," Trillanes said. "I believe they expected their commander-in-chief to be more sympathetic to their circumstances and that he'd issue a stronger statement." Former Army spokesman Col. Antonio Parlade Jr. had earlier admitted that the military was demoralized following the deaths of 19 soldiers in a clash with MILF members in Basilan province last Tuesday. Aquino, in reaction to the clash, expressed dismay at the performance of the military and even relieved Parlade from his duty Parlade. Also relieved was Col. Alexander Macario, commander of Special Operations Task Force (SOTF) in Basilan. Sen. Aquilino “Koko" Pimentel III, meanwhile, said Aquino should do something to boost the morale of the military. "As the commander-in-chief he should do something to always constantly boost the morale of the troops," he said in an interview also on Monday. “Constantly, kahit nangyari ito o hindi, there should always a constant activity, message, or a words of encouragement from the commander-in-chief as well as the hierarchy of the military." Trillanes said that although President need not change his position of not declaring an all-out war against the MILF, he should at least order a review of the parameters of the ceasefire agreement and demand that the MILF turnover the perpetrators of these incidents. The MILF is currently talking peace with the government and is observing a ceasefire agreement with government troops. - KBK, GMA News