No info yet on next PNP chief as change of command set March 27 –Fajardo

The Philippine National Police is already preparing for a change of command ceremony on March 27 but there is no information yet on who will replace PNP chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr.

In a press conference, PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said she has no information if Acorda will have another extension or will be replaced.

“We are already preparing for the change of command. In fact, may date na po tayo, March 27….Kung mapapalitan po siya, if you ask me, wala po akong information kung sino po ang papalit,” she said.

(We are already preparing for the change of command. In fact, we already have a date, March 27….If he would be replaced, if you ask me, I don’t have any information on who will replace him.)

Acorda was appointed PNP chief on April 24, 2023. His term was supposed to end on December 3, 2023 when he reached the mandatory retirement age of 56.

But, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr extended Acorda’s term until March 31, 2024 “given that [Acorda] has successfully led the police force since his appointment in April this year.”

Citing the law, Fajardo said the President will pick the new PNP chief from police personnel with ranks from Police Brigadier General and above.

Usually, Fajardo said, the new PNP chief comes from members of the police organization’s command group as seniority is also being considered in the selection process.—AOL, GMA Integrated News