PNP holds retirement honors for Azurin today

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police is set to have a change-of-command ceremony and retirement honors for PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. today.

Malacañang, however, has yet to name Azurin’s replacement. PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo told reporters to “just wait for the official announcement.”

Among the candidates for the top PNP post are deputy chief for administration Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, chief of the directorial staff Lt. Gen. Michael Dubria, director of the directorate for investigation and detective management Maj. Gen. Eliseo Cruz, deputy chief for operations Maj. Gen. Jonnel Estomo, National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Edgar Okubo and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group director Brig. Gen. Romeo Caramat Jr.

Maj. Gen. Benjamin Acorda, chief of the directorate for intelligence, is also reportedly in the running.

President Marcos is listed as the guest of honor for today’s event.

Yesterday, the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) held a testimonial parade and review for Azurin who retires after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 on Monday.

Azurin attended the parade and review at the Cicero Campos Field, Camp General Mariano Castañeda in Silang, Cavite.

On Saturday, the outgoing official said his stint as PNP chief was “like a roller coaster” and asked Marcos to be careful on who to choose as his successor.