(PNA file photo)
MANILA – Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año said on Wednesday he has already forwarded to President Rodrigo R. Duterte names of two officials who would succeed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos.
Carlos is stepping down from his post on May 8 after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.
“I have already submitted my recommendation on Tuesday to the President alongside with the National Police Commission (Napolcom) Resolution 2022-0236. I have submitted the names of two senior police officials who may be designated by the President as the replacement of Gen. Dionardo Carlos in an acting capacity upon his retirement on May 8, 2022,” Año said in a message to the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
On whether he was going to recommend the extension of Carlos’ tenure, Año said he would have to assess and wait for the President's order.
“Possible pa din (for the) extension (but it is still the) discretion pa din ni (of) PRRD,” he said.
Carlos said the PNP, under his leadership, has made preparations to ensure honest, orderly and peaceful elections.
He said he has complied with the directive of higher authorities to “make the necessary contingency plans after the May 9, onwards (and) a good transition to the next leadership of this country.”
“We made sure that the PNP will perform professionally for a peaceful election which means people will be able to come out to vote, their votes not bought, without any fear and on their free will," Carlos said. “We’re just looking at what's happening on a day-to-day, tweaking the plans if needed."
Among the officials who can succeed Carlos are Lt. Gen. Rhodel Sermonia, PNP’s No. 2 man as the deputy chief for administration; and Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao, the PNP’s No. 4 man as chief of the PNP Directorial Staff.
The PNP’s No. 3 man, PNP deputy chief for operations Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Divina, is due to retire on May 2 or six days before the scheduled retirement of Carlos. (PNA)
