By Florante S. Solmerin

DEFENSE Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. has advised groups trying to create an atmosphere of chaos by using a divide-and-rule tactic in the military organization to look for another ground to play their sinister attempts.

“Recently we have seen once again some sinister attempts to create division and disharmony among our ranks, pitting brother officer against brother officer. We appeal to those who are doing this for their selfish or pity ends, chose another playground to play your games with,” said Teodoro, in ending his speech during yesterday’s 62nd foundation anniversary of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.

Although he regarded the so-called “Oplan August Moon” an “intrigue”, he did not name any group who might be behind the supposed bomb plot against some government offices in Metro Manila.

Last Sunday, the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) in Quezon City was hit by a bomb lobbed by still unidentified suspects. The following day, another unexploded bomb was recovered from the compound of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and another one recovered near a condominium on Katipunan Avenue, also both in Quezon City.

Teodoro stressed that these destabilization attempts will not break the professionalism and unity of the military.

“The Armed Forces of the Philippines is solidly behind the Constitution. Its dignity will not allow itself to be wrapped by division by division, by intrigues. We will remain solid, united under principles of constitutionalism and dignity and honor of the armed services. That is what we promise to our fellow Filipino people and we hope that these sinister attempts to divide us will stop because they shall never, never succeed,” he said.

But while they are on tab of the situation, Teodoro said the military also remained vigilant against any security threats.

He went on to lash back against the opposition bloc that had earlier alleged the government itself was behind the bomb plot.

“In so saying, the opposition may be behind it also. What’s their evidence in saying the government did that. Blaming each other is an easy to do,” Teodoro said.

Meanwhile, Teodoro said the 2010 elections has to proceed with or without the automated poll machines including fears by the opposition bloc with the Constitutional Assembly (Con-Ass) being pushed by pro-administration congressman allegedly to extend President Gloria Mcapagal-Arroyo’s term.

“This country cannot afford a no election scenario, no way,” Teodoro said, who had already declared his intentions to run for president.