IN response to a reporter's question in a media briefing last week, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. disclosed that the AFP is conducting background checks on candidates for the May midterm elections. This was a startling announcement and indicates just how seriously the government is taking the threat of foreign interference in our elections. Whatever reassurance everyone can take from the government's proactive intentions, the involvement of the military in the election process is deeply concerning.