AFP to soldiers: Throw parties ‘within your means’

By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 12:40pm (Mla time) 12/22/2006

THE ARMED Forces of the Philippines (AFP) warned troops against using its name to solicit “gifts,” like money or goods, and throwing lavish parties beyond their means especially during the holiday season.

AFP spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Bartolome Bacarro issued the statement in the wake of reports of a debauchery at the Christmas party of the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP).

"Solicitation in any form, in cash or in kind, is not allowed if they [soldiers] use the name of the AFP," Bacarro told reporters in Camp Aguinaldo, adding, "That's is a policy. [Solicitation] is banned."

Asked if the military leadership prohibits its offices from hosting lavish parties, Bacarro said: "No, as long as it is within their means."

But Bacarro refused to confirm or deny that ISAFP chief Brigadier General Delfin Bangit threw P500 bills like candy, that draft beer flowed, six roasted calves were laid on the buffet table, and stand-up comics from popular Quezon City bars entertained soldiers during Wednesday’s Christmas bash.

According to an Inquirer report, motorcycles, refrigerators, TV sets, ovens, mountain bikes, and other appliances that were raffled off that night were solicited.

"I am not privy to what happened. What we can do is to get in touch with the ISAFP," Bacarro said.

The reported extravagant ISAFP Christmas party was held on the eve of austere celebrations for the AFP's 71st founding anniversary.

The AFP leadership drummed up the austere rights, which did away with parades, fireworks displays, and lavish banquets. It was the third straight year that the anniversary was marked by simple rites.

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