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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Gordon proposes fixed 3-year term for AFP chief

Gordon proposes fixed 3-year term for AFP chief

Published Sep 3, 2020 04:58 pm

Sen. Richard Gordon has proposed a fixed three-year term for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff to ensure an effective implementation of programs and reforms in the institution.

Senator Richard Gordon
(Senate of the Philippines / MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)

"The persons at the helm of the AFP should be given ample time -- even better security of tenure -- to develop, test, and implement effective reforms and meaningful long-term plans and programs of the AFP," Gordon said in a statement.

"This would also stop the revolving door appointments in the AFP that lead to lack of continuity of policies and lack of successful implementation of programs,” he added.

Gordon also pushed to raise the retirement age for generals from 56 to 65, saying that with the external and internal threats to the country’s sovereignty and security, the AFP would be able to respond better with seasoned officers at the helm.

"Kung may experience na mga 'yan (If they are experienced) and they retire at 65, they will not only have continuation of policy, consistency, discipline, and everything like that, they will also not be caught easily with tricks that have led to the recent ambushes against military troops," he said.

He said that at the same time, the AFP will be able to properly implement its modernization program.

The senator said that under the current system, chiefs of staff usually "only have a few months left to take over helm before they retire."

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