PNP chief’s term might be extended?

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte may extend the term of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos, which ends on the eve of the May 9 elections, to create a smooth transition period between the current and the next administration, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said yesterday.

Asked whether Duterte would be extending Carlos’ term when he turns 56 – the mandatory retirement age – on May 8, DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said the President has not yet addressed the matter.

“There is no guidance from PRRD. So far, Gen. Carlos will retire as scheduled,” Año told reporters, referring to Duterte by his presidential initials.

“I still need to get a feel of what he wants to do because there are two options: President Duterte can extend him to June 30 or he can appoint an officer-in-charge (OIC) up to June 30 so that the new President can appoint (his or her) prospect, but it’s most likely that President Duterte will extend Carlos so that there are no issues,” Año added.

Malacañang has said it would strictly follow rules against “midnight appointments” as Duterte’s term is set to end in a few weeks.