By Brian Campued
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has accepted the resignation of National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, Malacañang announced Wednesday.
“The President has accepted the resignation of National Security Adviser Eduardo Año. Secretary Año has decided to retire from public service after decades of continuous service in government and the military,” Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said in a press briefing.
“We thank Secretary Año for his dedicated and distinguished service to the Filipino people,” she added.
Appointed by Marcos on Jan. 14, 2023, Año served as the chief advisor to the Philippine government on matters of national security.
The Palace highlighted Año’s role in strengthening the national security framework, advancing counterterrorism and internal security efforts, and ensuring close coordination across the security sector during a period of evolving regional and global challenges.
“His leadership has helped maintain stability and protect the welfare of our citizens,” Castro said.
Meanwhile, the President has appointed former Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Eduardo Oban Jr. as Año’s replacement.
A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1979, Oban has extensive experience in military operations, defense planning, and national security.
“The President is confident that Secretary Oban will provide steady and capable leadership in advancing the country’s national security priorities and ensuring continuity in the government’s efforts to keep the nation safe and secure,” Castro said.
The National Security Adviser is a member of the National Security Council (NSC), the principal advisory body coordinating and integrating plans and policies relating to or with implications on national security.
In a statement, Ano thanked the President for his trust and confidence he has placed in him as the National Security Adviser and Director General of the NSC.
He also thanked the security sector, including the AFP, National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea, National Task Force to End the Local Communist Armed Conflict, National Intelligence Board, Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard for their “steadfast commitment and professionalism” in upholding the sovereignty, safety, and well‑being of the nation.
He likewise expressed his confidence in Oban, who, he said, “will carry forward the mission of protecting our nation.”
“I have full faith that, under his leadership, our national security institutions will continue to uphold the highest standards of excellence and integrity,” he said. (with report from Kenneth Paciente and Patrick de Jesus / PTV News)
-jpv
