The military on Thursday doused speculations that a corruption controversy preceded the decision of Lt. Gen. Galileo Gerard Kintanar Jr. to opt for an early retirement as chief of the Philippine Air Force (PAF).
“No, he is not relieved for corruption. It’s just to give way for the junior officers, that’s how professional and dynamic the organization is,” said military Public Affairs Office chief Col. Noel Detoyato.
Detoyato issued the clarification following insinuations that Kintanar may have been “forced” to leave his post early in connection with ongoing modernization projects for the Air Force.
“There is no issue of corruption whatsoever, it is for the professional growth of the whole organization,” said Detoyato.
President Duterte appointed Lt. Gen. Rozzano Briguez, former commander of the Armed Forces Western Command, on Wednesday as successor of Kintanar, who reportedly opted for an early retirement.
Briguez is a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, while Kintanar is a member of Class 1985 and has until 2020 to serve his term.
Detoyato said it was the personal decision of Kintanar to go on an early retirement.