DND chief says there is no truth to coup rumors

GAZMIN PRESENTS DND BUDGET IN SENATE HEARING: Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin explains in detail his agency’s proposed budget for the year 2013 during a Senate hearing Tuesday, September 11, 2012. The DND is seeking approval of its proposed budget for next year to ensure funding for its military upgrade program and establish an efficient disaster response system. (PRIB Photo by Joseph Vidal via senate.gov.ph)

MANILA — Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Voltaire Gazmin on Thursday said there is no truth to reports claiming that some elements of the military will be launching a coup.

He made this statement when asked what his assessments on whether coup rumors floating has basis.

“Nothing,” Gazmin replied in Filipino.

And when asked whether his ongoing tour of various installations are meant to check or dispel coup rumors, Gazmin said his visit was meant to determine the capability and readiness of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in responding to disasters and calamities

“I have been going around even before the coup came out. I am checking readiness of AFP as first responders during disasters and calamities,” stressed.

Gazmin earlier paid a visit to Northern Luzon Command in Camp Servillano Aquino, Tarlac, to check on the disaster response readiness of the units stationed there.