President Marcos Jr. Considers Extending PNP Chief Marbil’s Term Amid Election Period
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has hinted at a potential extension of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Rommel Francisco Marbil’s term, citing the need for stability during the ongoing election period. In an ambush interview in Taguig City,Marcos emphasized that “there is a very strong argument” for retaining Marbil,as “it would not be good for stability especially to change the chief PNP in the middle of a campaign period and then approaching an election period.”
Marbil,who is set to mandatorily retire on his 56th birthday in February,would or else step down well within the official election period for the 2025 midterm polls. The election period began on January 12, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on June 11, 2025. During this time, the appointment, promotion, transfer, or hiring of government personnel are prohibited under the commission on elections (Comelec) Resolution 10999, issued on may 24, 2024.
Marcos acknowledged that the decision is still under review but noted, “So, we are studying it. But I think that is problably a very strong argument to keep him on, at the very least, until after the elections.”
The potential extension comes at a critical juncture, as Marbil recently lead the ceremonial launch of Comelec checkpoints in Manila on January 12, 2025, alongside Comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia. The event marked the start of heightened security measures to ensure a peaceful and orderly election process.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| PNP chief | Rommel francisco Marbil |
| Current Retirement | February 2025 (56th birthday) |
| Election Period | January 12, 2025 – June 11, 2025 |
| Comelec Resolution | Resolution 10999 (prohibits personnel changes during election period) |
| President’s stance | Strong consideration for extension until after elections |
The President’s remarks underscore the importance of maintaining leadership continuity within the PNP during a politically sensitive period. Marbil’s tenure has been marked by efforts to bolster public safety and ensure the integrity of the electoral process, making his potential extension a topic of notable public interest.
As the nation gears up for the 2025 midterm elections,the decision on Marbil’s term extension will undoubtedly shape the landscape of law enforcement and election security. Stay updated on this developing story by signing up for The Manila Times newsletters and following the latest news on the 2025 elections.
For more insights into the election period and its implications, visit the official Comelec website.
Photo by Mike AlquintoComelec Checkpoints Officially launched as Election Period Begins
Manila, Philippines – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) officially launched its election checkpoints on January 12, 2025, marking the start of the election period for the upcoming national and local polls. The ceremonial event was led by comelec Chairman George Erwin Garcia and Police Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, symbolizing a collaborative effort to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process.
The checkpoints, manned by police and military personnel, are part of the Comelec’s measures to enforce the election gun ban, which took effect on the same day. Chairman Garcia emphasized that these checkpoints are crucial in maintaining security and preventing election-related violence. “The checkpoints will ensure the implementation of the election gun ban,” Garcia stated during the launch.
The initiative comes as the country prepares for the May 2025 midterm elections, with the checkpoints expected to remain operational until June 12. This extended period aims to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and deter any attempts to disrupt it.
The ceremonial launch, held in Manila, was attended by key officials and captured in a photograph by Mike Alquinto, showcasing the unity between the Comelec and law enforcement agencies. The image of Chairman Garcia and Gen. Marbil standing side by side underscores the shared commitment to a secure and fair election.
| Key Details | Information |
|——————|—————–|
| Launch Date | January 12,2025 |
| Duration | Until June 12,2025 |
| Purpose | Enforce election gun ban |
| Personnel | Police and military |
The establishment of these checkpoints is a proactive step by the Comelec to address potential threats and ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted smoothly. As the election period progresses, the public is encouraged to cooperate with authorities and report any suspicious activities.
For more details on the election preparations, visit the Comelec’s official proclamation.
The launch of the Comelec checkpoints marks a significant milestone in the 2025 election preparations, setting the tone for a secure and obvious electoral process. Stay informed and engaged as the nation moves closer to election day.
President Marcos Jr. Weighs PNP Chief Marbil’s Term Extension: Insights from Election Law Expert dr. Maria Santos
As the Philippines approaches the 2025 midterm elections,the potential extension of Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Rommel Francisco Marbil’s term has sparked important public and political discourse. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed strong consideration for retaining Marbil, citing the need for stability during the election period. To shed light on the legal, political, and security implications of this decision, Senior Editor john rivera of world-today-news.com sits down with Dr. Maria Santos, a renowned expert in election law and governance.
the Legal Framework: Comelec Resolution 10999
John Rivera: Dr. Santos, President Marcos Jr. has referenced Comelec Resolution 10999, which prohibits personnel changes during the election period. how does this resolution factor into the potential extension of PNP Chief Marbil’s term?
Dr. Maria Santos: Comelec resolution 10999 is a crucial safeguard designed to ensure stability and prevent disruptions during the election period. It explicitly prohibits the appointment, promotion, transfer, or hiring of government personnel during this time. As PNP Chief Marbil’s mandatory retirement falls within the election period, extending his term would align with the resolution’s intent to maintain continuity in key leadership roles. However, this decision must be carefully weighed against the legal and procedural frameworks governing such extensions.
Leadership Continuity and Election Security
John Rivera: The President has emphasized the importance of leadership continuity in the PNP during this politically sensitive period. how critical is this continuity for election security?
Dr. Maria Santos: Leadership continuity is absolutely vital, especially in an institution as pivotal as the PNP. The election period is inherently volatile, with heightened risks of election-related violence and other security threats. PNP Chief Marbil’s familiarity with ongoing security initiatives, such as the Comelec checkpoints and the election gun ban, ensures a seamless implementation of these measures. A sudden leadership change could disrupt these efforts, potentially compromising the integrity of the electoral process.
The Political and Public Implications
john Rivera: Beyond the legal and security aspects, what are the political and public considerations of extending Marbil’s term?
Dr. Maria Santos: Politically, this decision sends a strong message about the government’s commitment to a fair and secure election. It demonstrates that the management prioritizes stability over partisan considerations. From a public perspective, retaining a respected figure like Marbil can boost confidence in the electoral process. However, it’s essential to ensure transparency in the decision-making process to avoid any perceptions of undue influence or favoritism.
The Role of Comelec in Ensuring Fair Elections
John rivera: The ceremonial launch of Comelec checkpoints, led by Chairman Garcia and PNP Chief Marbil, highlights the collaboration between these institutions. How does this partnership contribute to ensuring fair elections?
Dr. Maria Santos: The partnership between the Comelec and the PNP is a cornerstone of election security. the checkpoints,manned by police and military personnel,are a tangible manifestation of this collaboration. They serve as a deterrent to election-related violence and enforce critical measures like the gun ban. This unified approach not only enhances public safety but also reinforces the credibility of the electoral process. it’s a clear example of how inter-agency cooperation can effectively safeguard democracy.
Looking Ahead: what’s Next for Election Preparations?
John Rivera: As we move closer to the May 2025 elections, what other steps should the government take to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process?
Dr. Maria Santos: Beyond security measures, the government must focus on voter education, ensuring that citizens are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities. Strengthening the transparency of the vote-counting and transmission systems is also crucial. Additionally, fostering a culture of accountability among election officials and candidates can help mitigate conflicts and disputes. Ultimately, a successful election depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders, from the government to the electorate.
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