CA defers AFP official’s promotion after wife testimony

Army official Ranulfo Sevilla at the Senate for his confirmation hearing on March 12, 2024. (Noy Morcoso/INQUIRER.net)

MANILA, Philippines — Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officer Ranulfo Sevilla has failed to secure his promotion to the rank of brigadier general after his wife, Tessa Luz Reyes-Sevilla, testified against his confirmation before the Commission on Appointments (CA).

Sevilla is currently the Deputy Commander of the AFP’s Special Operations Command based in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.

“I think the plan is to defer first the appointment until such time the [committee] can see the document that will be sent to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Of course, a clearly signed and notarized affidavit, indicating [Sevilla’s] commitment to provide support for his children,” Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri told reporters in an ambush interview on Tuesday.

READ: ‘Abused’ wife blocks promotion of Army official at CA

According to Zubiri, the committee supported the position of women legislators’ request for Sevilla to first promise “in writing” that he would provide financial support for his children, including their education and monthly sustenance.

Strong signal

“The committee is inclined to support the women legislators’ request. This should send a strong signal to all those who appear before the Commission on Appointments that we are not just looking into your performance as a public servant,” said Zubiri.

In a separate press conference on Tuesday, Tessa recalled the harrowing instances she endured in the hands of her husband.

Apart from committing adultery, Tessa said Sevilla subjected her and their children to physical and emotional abuse.