President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed into law a measure fixing the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) commandant’s term of office.
Republic Act (RA) 12122, inked by Marcos on February 18, 2025, fixes the PCG commandant’s term to three years to ensure the agency’s stability.
“The Commandant shall have a maximum of three years, which shall commence on the date the appointment is signed, unless sooner terminated by the President,” according to the new law.
“The PCG Commandant shall be compulsorily retired upon completion of the maximum term or upon relief by the President,” it added.
The provisions of the new law apply to the PCG commandant appointed and promoted under RA 9993, also known as the Philippine Coast Guard Law of 2009, and other pertinent laws.
The new law would allow the PCG commandant to focus on long-term programs and reforms, amid tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
RA 12122, which was made public on Wednesday, takes effect immediately after its complete publication in the Official Gazette or at least one newspaper of general circulation. (PNA)