Marcos signs law setting 3-year term for PCG chief

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos has signed a law setting a three-year fixed term for the commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

Republic Act 12122, signed on Feb. 18, amended Section 5 of RA 9993, the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009.

“The PCG chief will have a maximum term of three years, which will commence on the date the appointment is signed, unless sooner terminated by the President. The commandant shall be compulsorily retired upon completion of the maximum term or upon relief by the President,” the law states.

The provisions of RA 12122 apply to PCG commandants appointed or promoted under RA 9993 and other pertinent laws.

It repealed all laws, decrees, executive orders, regulations and other issuances or provisions inconsistent with the law.

The law has taken effect following its publication in the Official Gazette on Wednesday.

Proponents of the law believe that a fixed three-year term for the PCG chief will provide stability in the Coast Guard’s leadership.

PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gavan was appointed by Marcos in October 2023. He is set to retire on Feb. 21 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.