CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. has voiced his strong support for Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro Jr., urging military personnel to stay mission-driven despite controversy over Sec. Teodoro’s previously held Maltese passport.
Addressing his troops, General Brawner called on the military to remain focused and undistracted, reassuring them that the matter had already been resolved.
“Let’s just focus on our job. Hayaan po natin yung isyu na ganyan. Anyway, nasagot naman na ‘yan ng SND (Secretary of National Defense). Ang importante, ang kanyang allegiance and patriotism to our country is very strong,” Gen. Brawner said.
“There is absolutely no doubt about his loyalty. He has always stood for country above all. His record, service, and unwavering commitment speak for themselves,” he explained.
It was reported that the Defense Secretary possessed a Maltese passport—an asset that, if retained, could disqualify him from holding high public office under Philippine law.
However, the DND issued a statement confirming that Sec. Teodoro acquired the passport in 2016 through Malta’s now-defunct investment citizenship program, but has already surrendered and renounced it before filing his candidacy for the 2022 senatorial elections.
The renunciation was disclosed to the Commission on Elections, Bureau of Immigration, and the Commission on Appointments prior to his confirmation as Defense Secretary. Meanwhile, legal experts also supported that once renounced, the passport no longer posed any legal threat to his public service.
“In times like these, we must anchor ourselves in truth and trust. Let us channel our energy toward fulfilling our sworn duty, for that is the greatest service we can give the Filipino people,” Gen. Brawner ended.///
