Marcos Jr. extends PNP chief Marbil’s term by four months

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has extended Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil's term by four months, effective February 7.

In a memorandum dated Feb. 4 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and released by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), President Marcos approved the extension of Marbil’s term beyond his compulsory retirement age of 56 on his birthday.

Marbil thanked President Marcos for extending his term, expressing 'profound gratitude' and stating he will focus on preparations for the 2025 national and local elections to ensure peaceful and credible polls.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier emphasized that maintaining institutional stability is crucial during election periods, citing the importance of not changing PNP leadership mid-campaign.

The extension comes ahead of the campaign period for candidates taking part in the senatorial and party-list elections on Feb. 11, with the May 12 midterm polls officially starting on Jan. 12 and ending on June 11.

Mr. Marbil's tenure as police chief has been marked by initiatives in law enforcement modernization and crime prevention.