T he crisis in Makati is over.

Two hundred ninety six soldiers, including 70 officers are standing down and returning to barracks.

They will be investigated and their cases will be disposed of in accordance with the Articles of War. They have not asked and they shall not be given special treatment.

I have directed the Chief of Staff to immediately restore normalcy in the military organization. I commend the officers and men who have handled the crisis with the loyalty and professionalism.

Civilians shown to be involved in any conspiracy will be prosecuted.

I thank the leaders of Congress, the church and the civil society for their support.

I am also thankful for the support extended by the diplomatic community. I assure the world that this event does not in any way injure our national security and political instability. The issues involved are domestic operational or administrative; they do not involve ideological or fundamental policy areas. Our decision to enter dialogue reaped positive results.

Once more, this has been a triumph for democracy.

May God bless the Philippines!