Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 5)— President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar as the 26th chief of the Philippine National Police, Malacañang confirmed on Wednesday.
Eleazar will replace Gen. Debold Sinas, who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on May 8, in leading the 200,000-strong police force.
In a statement, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque cited Eleazar’s track record as a PNP official.
“We are therefore confident that he will continue the reform initiatives of his predecessors and lead the police organization to greater heights,” Roque said.
In a separate statement, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año likewise welcomed the appointment of Eleazar, describing him as “very qualified” for the post.
The DILG chief also thanked Duterte for “acting favorably” on his recommendation.
“I expect PLt Gen Eleazar to lead the entire PNP organization to greater heights in serving and protecting our people, implementing quarantine protocols and minimum health standards, and promoting law and order during this challenging period in our nation’s history,” Año said.
For his part, Eleazar said he also accepts the challenges that come with the promotion.
Prior to his appointment, Eleazar served the second highest post in the PNP as Deputy Chief for Administration.
He also worked as chief of the National Capital Region Police Office and head of the government’s task force against COVID-19 quarantine violators. He belongs to the Philippine Military Academy Hinirang Class of 1987.
Eleazar is the sixth PNP chief handpicked by Duterte. He will only serve for six months as he is set to retire on his 56th birthday on Nov. 13.
This means Duterte can still name his seventh PNP chief before his term ends on June 30, 2022.
READ: Statement of newly-appointed PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar | @pnbarcelonlive pic.twitter.com/ZJZsrunJTb
— CNN Philippines (@cnnphilippines) May 5, 2021
