Bangit opts for early retirement as GMA bids troops goodbye By Mario J. Mallari and Aytch S. de la Cruz 06/12/2010

Bangit opts for early retirement as GMA bids troops goodbye

By Mario J. Mallari and Aytch S. de la Cruz 06/12/2010 Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Delfin Bangit yesterday said he is considering relinquishing his post and go on an early retirement before incoming President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino assumes the presidency on June 30. “Yes,” Bangit replied when asked by Camp Aguinaldo reporters if he is willing to retire early, adding “it’s just a matter of making the decision after proper preparations are made.” “Whether I will retire or whether I will transfer the chief of staff, all of these are being studied. I will make the announcement in due time,” Bangit, who is reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56 on July 31, 2011, stressed. “But whatever I will do, will be for the good of the Armed Forces,” the military chief said. Bangit, however, maintained that he has yet to make final decision on the matter even as he stressed that he will announce such “not later than July 1.” Aquino is taking oath on June 30 when the term of President Arroyo expires. A military official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Bangit was seriously studying bowing out of the service in the coming weeks. “Why would you retire before a President that doesn’t like you? He may retire earlier than June 30. Anytime, he can retire,” the official added. Another source said the Army has scheduled a testimonial parade and review in honor of Bangit on Monday, indicating that AFP chief is on his way out.  Bangit confirmed that a testimonial parade was arranged by the Army on Monday but did not elaborate. Aquino has earlier announced that he will not retain Bangit as AFP chief. Bangit, who is perceived to be loyal to President Arroyo, has vowed to obey the order of the incoming Commander-in-Chief. He praised her during the rites, saying: “We all knew that this time would come. That no matter how good a President is, she has to step down after her term. She had always known that. She had repeatedly mentioned that. Finally now, we give her honors as we bid goodbye,” he added..... MORE     Source:  The Daily Tribune URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/headlines/20100612hed5.html

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