AFP vice chief of staff retires from post

The Philippine military's second highest official retired Wednesday, 21 days before a new president takes over as the commander-in-chief of the military and police. A radio report said a testimonial parade was held for Lt. Gen. Rodrigo Maclang at Camp Aguinaldo, where he was awarded a Philippine Army Command plaque and a certificate of honorable service after being a serviceman for more than 38 years. Maclang is a member of the Philippine Military Academy "Magilas" Class of 1976. He ended his military tour of duty upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56. In a short interview with reporters, Maclang said he was open to accepting any offers to serve in the government again, but quickly added he wants to have a vacation first. "I am open to any offers... walang problema yan [but] for the meantime, sana magbakasyon muna ako." Maclang's retirement came amid the uncertain future of AFP chief General Delfin Bangit, whose appointment as military chief was bypassed by the bicameral Commission on Appointments. The camp of incoming president Senator Benigno Aquino III has also expressed apprehension about retaining Bangit as military chief. Bangit is a member of the PMA "Makatarungan" Class of 1978, of which President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is an honorary member. Shortly after Bangit's appointment as AFP chief was bypassed by the powerful Appointments body, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile said Bangit should vacate his post. Enrile said Bangit should quit because his appointment was only ad interim and it lapsed after the sine die adjournment. But Sen. Rodolfo Biazon, a former military chief, expressed a different view on the matter, saying Bangit need not leave his post as the CA confirms ranks of military officials and not their appointments. The same radio report said that among the military officials being eyed as Maclang's possible replacement were National Development Support chief Lt. Gen. Nestor Ochoa and AFP deputy chief for logistics Rear Admiral Mario Catacutan. Philippine Navy flag officer Rear Admiral Emilio Marayag is also set to retire Thursday, the report added. — LBG/RSJ, GMANews.TV