President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has chosen the next chief of the Philippine National Police, Interior Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla confirmed.
In a chance interview, Remulla said the President already has someone in mind, though the official announcement may take a few more weeks.
“Nag-usap na kami. May napupusuan na siya. Pero, hintayin na lang natin yung announcement niya (We have talked about it. He has someone in mind. But let’s wait for his announcement),” he said.
He added that the candidates reviewed by the President are “very qualified, and very dynamic,” and have “good track records.”
The next PNP chief will replace Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, who was originally set to retire in February after reaching the mandatory retirement age but was given an extension by Marcos until 7 June to help oversee preparations for the 2025 national and local elections.
Among the contenders for the top PNP post are Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., Deputy Chief for Administration; Lt. Gen. Edgar Allan Okubo, Chief of the Directorial Staff; CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III; and NCRPO Director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin.