Ibrado, Gazmin, Cruz eyed for defense post?

MANILA, Philippines - Former Armed Forces chief Victor Ibrado has reportedly been included in the shortlist of candidates for the next defense chief, sources in the defense establishment claimed.

The same sources revealed that former general Voltaire Gazmin was also being considered.

But the first choice to replace Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales is former defense chief Avelino Cruz, another official said, although Cruz is also being eyed to take the helm of the Department of Justice.

Cruz resigned from President Arroyo’s Cabinet following differing legal views over Malacañang’s attempt to push Charter change.

But sources in the Liberal Party claim that a former senator has been offered the post, although it has not been ascertained if the former legislator has accepted the offer.

Following his retirement on March 9 this year, Mrs. Arroyo immediately designated Ibrado as defense undersecretary.

Ibrado, however, was not keen on his new job and has not reported for duty, even ignoring calls from Mrs. Arroyo herself.

Ibrado earlier declared he would not accept any government position upon his retirement, even as there had been calls to extend his tour of duty.

To his credit, Ibrado served as a unifying force during his term as commander of the 125,000-strong Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“One of the reasons why he is being considered to occupy the defense portfolio is that he is well respected by the men and women in the uniformed services,” another official said.

Under his leadership, Ibrado was able to rally continuing support for Mrs. Arroyo and was able to neutralize power grab attempts against her administration.

When informed that he was being considered for the defense portfolio, Ibrado said he has not been offered the position or even approached for any position by Aquino or anyone from his camp.