Gazmin downplays resignation report

By: Bong Lozada - 10 years ago

Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and AFP chief General Emmanuel Bautista award more than 100 military personnel at the AFP Thanksgiving Day. FILE PHOTO/AFP Public Affairs Office

MANILA, Philippines — With the retirement of General Emmanuel Bautista, Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff, rumors of the resignation of Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin started to circulate, but the man was quick to downplay the issue.

According to a report, the 55-year-old Bautista is being groomed to be the next defense chief.

“When I said that I’m tired, that’s not correct,” said the former Commanding General of the Philippine Army. “Yes I have aged but I’m even stronger than people my age.”

Gazmin added that his working tenure would depend on the Chief Executive, President Benigno Aquino III.

“My service depends on the President, I would continue to do what he says,” Gazmin said. “If he says that I should resign, I would resign.”

“I’m thankful that I’ve had the chance to serve the country.”