Home⇛Augustinian⇛vol. 25 no. 1 (2025)

Instruments of Power: Politicization in Military Appointments and Its Impact in Western Visayas

Noel Sinco

Discipline: Politics

 

Abstract:

With its 38 years in existence, the 1987 Philippine Constitution can not stop the encroachment of each of the branches on others, particularly Congress under the guise of the Commission on Appointments (C.A.). There exists a conflict between the Executive and Legislative Branches in military appointments. This study analyzed the military appointments from 1987 to 2022 and the politicization tools used during these periods. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, this research focused on the interplay between the politico-legal encroachments of the Executive and Legislative Branches, zeroing in on the military appointments. The author utilized the Commission`s Journal Deliberations (419 Journals), evidencing the various political dynamics of military appointments. On the other hand, the Revolving Door Policy has been a frequent tool by the Executive to also influence military appointments, thereby creating an average stint of 342.65 days for the A.F.P. Chief. The retired military officers were frequently appointed and reappointed as many as four times to various departments aligned or not aligned with military-related aspects. It is a gradual but striking indication of a pivot from the classical “Old Professionalism” to “New Professionalism” of these former military personnel turned cabinet members. The research concluded that the civilian government now utilizes military approaches and components to resolve civilian problems, as these politicization tools play a great role in this civil-military relations approach. Its regional impact is significant as Western Visayas housed several key star generals and important military officials because of its regional significance and strategic importance in counterinsurgency efforts.



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