EXTENDED TERM. Philippine National Police chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.'s term has been extended until March 24 next year. He was appointed as the PNP chief in April this year. (PNA file photo)
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has extended the term of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. until March 31, 2024.
In a statement on Monday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said Marcos extended Acorda's tenure 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 31 March 2024,” a letter signed by Marcos addressed to Acorda read.
Executive Order 136, series of 1999, recognizes the power of the President to extend the service of presidential appointees beyond the compulsory retirement age for exemplary meritorious reasons.
Acorda reached the 56-year-old compulsory retirement for PNP personnel on Dec. 3, 2023.
He has led the PNP to focus on an agenda for a more effective police force such as the Personnel Morale and Welfare, Community Engagement, Integrity Enhancement, ICT Development and Honest Law Enforcement Operations.
Acorda is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Sambisig Class of 1991.
He earlier served as the director of the PNP Directorate for Intelligence before becoming the PNP chief.
According to the PCO, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abajos Jr. was also informed in a transmittal letter, dated Dec. 1, 2023 and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, about Acorda’s extension of service.
The PNP is an attached agency of the DILG.
Work continues
During Monday’s flag-raising rites, Acorda thanked the President for his support.
“Before I proceed, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to our President, Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. I am truly honored and humbled by his continued trust and confidence in my capability,” Acorda said.
In a press briefing in Camp Crame, Quezon City, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said the top cop has ordered ground commanders to intensify police presence for the holiday season, especially in commercial establishments, tourist spots and churches ahead of the nine-day Simbang Gabi Masses.
This comes in the wake of Sunday’s blast at the Mindanao State University gym in Marawi City that killed four people and injured 50 others. (with report from Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)
