Marcos accepts resignation of Eduardo Año as NSA

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. has accepted the resignation of National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, Malacañang said on Wednesday.

Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said this in a briefing, noting that Año has decided to retire from public service. 

''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,'' Castro said.

''We thank Secretary Año for his dedicated and distinguished service to the Filipino people,'' she added.

Castro said Año had played a key 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. 

She said his leadership has helped maintain stability and protect the welfare of Filipino citizens.

In a separate statement, Año confirmed his retirement citing “health reasons” that require “full attention and care.”

“In recent months, it has become apparent that I must prioritize my health and well?being. To ensure continuity, stability, and the highest standards of service in safeguarding our national security, I believe it is time to step aside and allow others to lead,” he said.

“An orderly transition is underway, and I am confident that critical operations and ongoing initiatives will continue,” he added.

Año thanked Marcos for the President's trust and confidence.

“I remain confident in the strength and resilience of our institutions and in the capable, steady leadership of General Eduardo Oban, Jr. (Ret.), who will carry forward the mission of protecting our nation,” he said.

“I have full faith that, under his leadership, our national security institutions will continue to uphold the highest standards of excellence and integrity,” he added.

Año will be replaced by former Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Eduardo Oban Jr., Castro said. 

A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1979, Oban has extensive experience in military operations, defense planning, and national security. He also served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans (J5) and head of the Visiting Forces Agreement Commission.

''With his depth of experience, 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. —VAL/RF, GMA News