President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed into law, the measure that sought to strengthen the professionalism in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Among the provisions that became amended include the tour of duty and appointment among key military officers.
On May 17, 2023, President Marcos had signed Republic Act No. 11939, or An Act Further Strengthening Professionalism and Promoting the Continuity of Policies and Modernization Initiatives in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Amending for this Purpose Republic Act No. 11709.
President Ferdinand Marcos’ predecessor, former President Rodrigo Duterte, signed Republic Act No. 11709 last May, 2022z
The new law now states that the following officials that are holding key positions in the AFP shall have a maximum tour of duty of two consecutive years.
This shall commence on the date the appointment is signed, unless sooner terminated by the President.
Among the ranks include the Commanding General, Philippine Army; the Commanding General, Philippine Air Force; the Flag Officer in Command, Philippine Navy; and the Superintendent, Philippine Military Academy.
The new law likewise said that the officials will not be
These officials shall not be eligible for any position in the AFP unless promoted to the position of Chief of Staff.
In the law signed by Duterte, the chiefs of the Army, the Navy, and the Air Force were then given a fixed three-year term.
The PMA superintendent on the other hand, was given a tour of duty of four years.
On the other hand, AFP chief of staff will still have a maximum tour of duty of three consecutive years.
This shall start on the date to which the appointment is signed, unless sooner terminated by the President.
Catherine R. Cueto
