By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has extended the term of Philippine National Police Chief General Benjamin Acorda Jr. until March 31, 2024, Malacañang announced on Monday (04 Dec 2023).

“I wish to inform you that, according to the provisions of existing laws, your service as Chief (Police General), Philippine National Police, is hereby extended until March 31, 2024,” read a letter sent by Marcos to Acorda.

Acorda celebrated his 56th birthday on Sunday, December 3, reaching the mandatory retirement age for PNP personnel. Marcos appointed him as PNP chief on April 24, 2023.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abajos Jr. was also notified in a transmittal letter dated December 1, 2023, and signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, regarding Acorda’s extension of service.

The PNP operates as an attached agency of the DILG.

Acorda, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Sambisig Class of 1991, has dedicated nearly 37 years of service to the PNP. He previously served as the director of the PNP Directorate for Intelligence before assuming the role of PNP Chief.

(ai/mnm)