Sacking of military spokesman defended

Manila: The Philippine president's office defended the sacking of a military spokesman who suggested that President Benigno Aquino suspend the ceasefire agreement signed by the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) following the death of 27 government troopers in attacks launched by the rebel group in Mindanao, saying he should have followed the state's official position on the issue.

"As spokespersons we are not policy-makers," said Undersecretary Abigail Valte, deputy spokesperson of President Aquino, as she explained the reason for the ouster of Army spokesperson, Colonel Antonio Parlade Jr. last Friday.

"We are supposed to stick to what the policy is. We cannot give our personal opinion," Valte said.