Bangit retires, Ochoa named acting AFP chief

June 25, 2010 CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City— President Arroyo approved on Monday the early retirement of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Delfin Bangit and immediately designated AFP Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Nestor Ochoa as acting AFP chief.

Bangit officially retires on June 22, one year ahead of his retirement.

Bangit decided to retire after President-elect Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III said that he would not retain Bangit as AFP chief once he assumes the presidency on July 1.

Bangit assumed as AFP chief last March 10 and is supposed to reach the retirement age of 56 in July next year.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo witnesses the change-of-command ceremony for Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Delfin Bangit (left) and acting AFP chief Lt. Gen. Nestor Ochoa last Tuesday at the GHQ Grandstand in Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

Mrs. Arroyo later bid goodbye to the nation after nine years as President. She urged the nation to unite behind incoming President Benigno Aquino III and Vice President Jejomar Binay.