Marcos extends PNP chief Acorda’s term by 4 months

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has extended the term of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. until next year, Malacañang announced yesterday.

In a statement, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Marcos extended Acorda’s service until March 31, 2024, “given that the latter has successfully led the police force since his appointment in April this year.”

“I wish to inform you that, pursuant to the provisions of existing laws, your service as Chief (Police General), Philippine National Police, is hereby extended until March 31, 2024,” the PCO said, quoting the President’s letter to the PNP chief.

Acorda turned 56, the mandatory retirement age for PNP personnel, last Sunday.

The PCO’s announcement came following the deadly bombing in Marawi City on the same day.

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos was also informed about Acorda’s term extension in a transmittal letter dated Dec. 1 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, according to the PCO.

The PNP is an attached agency of the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

Executive Order 36 issued in 1999 recognizes the power of the President to approve the extension of service of presidential appointees beyond the compulsory retirement age for exemplary meritorious reasons.

Marcos appointed Acorda as the 29th PNP chief last April 24, replacing retired police general Rodolfo Azurin Jr.

Acorda is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Sambisig Class of 1991.

He has been serving in the PNP for almost 37 years. He was the director of the PNP Directorate for Intelligence before becoming the PNP chief.

The PNP earlier denied a Facebook post that Marcos had named Maj. Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil as the next PNP chief.

Marbil is the head of the PNP Directorate for Comptrollership.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said that a picture of Marbil showing the official as the new PNP chief is fake.

The PNP is conducting an investigation to determine the source of the rumors.

Human rights

In celebration of National Human Rights Consciousness Week, Acorda reaffirmed the PNP’s commitment to uphold and respect human rights.

During his speech at Camp Crame yesterday, Acorda underscored the importance of unity in respecting and valuing human rights, regardless of race, gender or religion.

The celebration is in line with the observance of Republic Act 9201, which was enacted on Dec. 10, 1948, from Dec. 4 to 10.

This year’s theme is “Dignidad, Kalayaan at Katarungan para sa Lahat (Dignity, Freedom, Justice for All)” which, according to Acorda, embodies the core principles integral to the PNP’s role as guardians of peace and order.

The PNP chief stressed the significance of dignity in their duty, pledging respect and empathy irrespective of circumstances.

He spoke of freedom as a commitment to protecting liberties and rights, standing as sentinels against fear and oppression.

Justice, he said, remains their guiding light, ensuring fairness to all.

He added that the PNP serves impartially and equitably without bias or discrimination.

The gathering also acknowledged the upcoming 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on Dec. 10.

Acorda cited the ongoing duty of nations to protect and uphold human rights principles, pointing out the universal agreement on the rights and freedoms of individuals beyond borders and cultures.

He also called on all PNP personnel to internalize and live by the state’s obligation toward human rights, urging them to respect, protect and fulfill human rights.

Acorda assured the public that justice would prevail for victims, and those accountable would face the consequences of their actions.

He expressed gratitude and reiterated the PNP’s commitment to serving as steadfast defenders of human rights in the Philippines.