GAMU, Isabela, April 23 (PIA) — A Philippine Army official ordered the 5th Infantry Division soldiers to remain neutral and non-partisan during elections and stand to guard the conduct of elections.

Army commander Col. Noel Coballes made the call during his visit in this camp last week where he met officials and soldiers of the camp and brigade camps.

In his visit, he said the main role of soldiers is to protect the state against aggression, invasion to the country and government and shall remain neutral during elections.

He also announced that the government has acquired new rifles to be used by the soldiery to protect the state as part of the Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization program.

The army chief was also briefed by 5ID officials led by Maj. General Joel Ibanez on the peace and order situation in its area of operations.

Coballes also visited 501st and 502nd Infantry Brigade based at Kalinga province and in this province respectively.