AFP chief denies rumors to replace Gazmin

MANILA, Philippines - Outgoing Armed Forces chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista on Friday dismissed as “rumors” talks that he would take over the post of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin after he retires from the service.

Bautista, however, did not categorically say that he is not interested in a civilian post, preferring instead to adopt a "wait and see" attitude on the matter.

“That is at best a rumor,” the military chief told state-run television station PTV 4 Friday.

When asked whether he would accept an offer to assume a civilian post, Bautista said: “Let’s see. Let’s see what lies ahead.”

An online report published last week said Gazmin has been telling his peers that he is tired and that he would soon resign to give way to Bautista.

Gazmin has belied the report, saying he is still fit for the job despite his age. The 69-year old defense chief, however, said he is willing to leave his post if asked to do so by President Aquino.

A graduate of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) class ’81, Bautista will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on July 20.

There have been speculations that Bautista has political ambitions as his subordinates aggressively create online noise about his nickname “Manny Sundalo.”

As Bautista’s supporters hail him as a “social media icon,” some are speculating that the online publicity is a public relations stunt to prepare him for a higher post.

Bautista, however, clarified that he has no plans to run for public office.

“No, there is none,” he said when asked if he has an ambition to become an elected public servant.