The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, that it is actively working to confirm alarming reports regarding the potential recruitment and training of Filipino citizens for deployment in the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.
Military Urges Public Caution Amid Disinformation
During a press briefing, AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla addressed the circulating claims. "With this information, we are currently verifying the validity of these reports," Colonel Padilla stated. She emphasized the challenging nature of the current information landscape, noting a significant proliferation of false narratives.
"We have to note that there is a proliferation of disinformation in today's information environment," she added. "And so, it is essential for us to remain discerning, and of course, we have to be cautious in assessing these claims that are coming out." This statement underscores the military's approach to handling unverified information that could cause public concern.
Embassies Deny, Russia Makes Accusations
The reports being investigated by the Philippine military follow a series of international statements. Both the Ukrainian and German embassies in Manila have previously and firmly denied the existence of any such recruitment programs targeting Filipinos.
However, these denials stand in contrast to allegations made by Russian officials. Prior to the AFP's verification announcement, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova claimed that the United States had been hiring Filipinos "for participation in the hostilities on the side of the Ukrainian Armed Forces." This accusation from Moscow appears to be a key driver behind the reports now under scrutiny by Philippine authorities.
Implications and Next Steps
The situation places the Philippine government in a delicate position, balancing its need to protect overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) with navigating complex international geopolitical tensions. The AFP's verification process is a critical first step in determining the factual basis of the claims.
Key points to remember include:
- The date of the AFP announcement: December 2, 2025.
- The primary source: AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla.
- The core action: The military is verifying the reports, not confirming them.
- The international context: Direct denials from two embassies and an accusation from a third country.
Until the Armed Forces of the Philippines completes its investigation, the public is advised to treat the recruitment reports with caution and rely on official channels for confirmed information. The outcome of this verification could have significant implications for Philippine foreign policy and citizen welfare.
