Eleazar named PNP chief of directorial staff

MANILA, Philippines — National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Maj. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar, one of the top contenders to be the country’s next police chief, was promoted as chief of the directorial staff of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

PNP chief Gen. Oscar Albayalde said Eleazar’s new assignment takes effect on Oct. 12.

Eleazar, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Hinirang Class of 1987, is now the fourth highest ranking official in the PNP.

Replacing Eleazar as Metro Manila’s police commander is his classmate, Central Visayas police director Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas.

The reshuffle was triggered by the retirement of Lt. Gen. Fernando Mendez, PNP deputy chief for administration.

Replacing Mendez as PNP deputy chief for administration is Lt. Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa while Lt. Gen. Camilo Pancratius Cascolan will move up as deputy chief for operations.

Gamba and Cascolan are rumored to be candidates to replace Albayalde, who will retire on Nov. 8.