Philippine National Police Supports Potential Extension of Chief Marbil’s Term

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The Philippine National Police (PNP) has expressed support for the potential extension of its chief, General Rommel Francisco Marbil, whose retirement is scheduled for next month. During a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP spokesperson and Central Luzon Police chief, Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, stated that extending the term of a sitting PNP chief is not unprecedented within the organization. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has indicated a strong inclination towards extending Marbil’s tenure, especially given the upcoming election season. Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla has also hinted at a high likelihood of Marbil’s term being extended at least until the election period in May. Fajardo emphasized the challenges of changing leadership during the critical election preparation phase but assured that the PNP is prepared to secure the elections regardless of Marbil’s status. President Marcos is expected to make a final decision on Marbil’s future before February 7, when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56, with the possibility of staying in his position until June. Marbil, a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Sambisig Class of 1991, assumed the role of the 30th PNP chief on April 1, 2024. Meanwhile, a list of potential successors has been prepared, including notable figures such as Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez, Lieutenant General Robert Rodriguez, Major General Edgar Alan Okubo, and Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III.