On April 21, 2026, Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity formally announced his retirement, effective immediately, after 46 years of uninterrupted service to the nation. The decision was driven by a personal need to attend to his wife's health and dedicate time to his family.
A Lifetime of Service
His journey in public service began with his tenure as the 50th Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. He later served as Presidential Peace Adviser, Chief Implementer of the National Task Force Against Covid-19, Vaccine Czar, and Officer-in-Charge of the Department of National Defense.
Gratitude to President Marcos
He expressed profound gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., for his unwavering trust and for extending his tenure, allowing continuity in peace initiatives. He also thanked the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, acknowledging their gallantry and shared sacrifice.
Recognition of Peace Partners
Domestic and international peace partners were recognized for their steadfast support, which he described as the bedrock of progress in the Philippine Comprehensive Peace Process. He also praised the men and women of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) for their dedication over eight years.
Confidence in Successor
He expressed full confidence in the future of the peace process, noting that his successor, Secretary Mel Sarmiento, brings a distinguished record as former Vice Mayor, Mayor, House of Representatives member, Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, and Chairperson of the Galing Pook Foundation. He expressed certainty that under Sarmiento's leadership, the pursuit of just and lasting peace will reach greater heights.
In closing, he offered deepest gratitude to the Almighty for the grace to serve as an instrument of peace and affirmed that, though leaving official post, his heart remains with the nation until his final breath.
