DILG wants Marantan’s tour of duty extended

MANILA, Philippines — Saying the police force still needs his skills in high-impact operations, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is seeking to extend the service of Calabarzon police director Brig. Gen. Hansel Marantan.

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla Remulla said he has written the National Police Commission, a collegial body which he chairs, to request for a one-year extension of Marantan’s tour of duty.

On July 10, Marantan will turn 56, the mandatory retirement age for uniformed personnel.

“This request is being made in the interest of the service to ensure continuity in the execution of critical and ongoing high-impact operations currently being spearheaded by Gen. Marantan,” Remulla said in the letter.

In a Viber message to journalists, Remulla cited Marantan’s service and capabilities as reasons for recommending the extension.

“There is great merit in his service.  We still need his specialized skill set for one more year,” Remulla said.

As Calabarzon police director, Marantan has operational control and supervision of police forces in Remulla’s home province of Cavite as well as Laguna, Batangas, Quezon and Rizal.

In a statement, Marantan said he is honored and grateful for Remulla’s trust and confidence in him.

He vowed to faithfully perform his duties as head of the Calabarzon police.

Marantan is among 12 police officers acquitted by a Manila court over the Atimonan shooting that occurred in Quezon province 13 years ago.

The shootout left 13 people dead, including a suspected gambling lord.