Retiring AFP chief open to gov’t post

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. is planning to take a break upon his retirement from the military service next month, although he is open to a government position if it is offered to him.

In an interview with reporters at the Central Command in Cebu, Catapang, who retires on July 11 at the age of 56, said he needs a rest after 38 years in service.

“I need a rest after 38 years of continuous service because I didn’t go on leaves or breaks. I need a rest and think about my next plans in life,” the retiring military chief said.

If he is offered a government post, the AFP chief said he “will just follow” any marching orders.

“The President has been so kind to me, so any marching orders he gives to me, I will just follow,” Catapang said.

Catapang was in Cebu to visit the Central Command as part of his rounds of military camps and bases as he bids farewell to his men.

His first assignment upon graduation from the Philippine Military Academy in 1981 was in Central Command.

President Aquino has yet to name Catapang’s replacement. Rumored to be strong contenders for the post are Philippine Army chief Lt. Gen. Hernando Iriberri, Philippine Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Delgado and Southern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Ricardo Visaya.