READ: Navy chief relieved over P16-B frigate contractThe former FOIC, who remains in floating status, was set to retire in March, and Lorenzana said Mercado has not expressed his intention to resign or retire early. “According to some of the former FOIC that talked to him is that he will just be allowed to retire in March. Sabi ko (I said) he can retire then, hindi naman siya pinipilit mag retire ng maaga eh (he’s not being forced to retire early),” the defense chief said. Lorenzana said he also requested a meeting with former Navy chiefs to explain the sudden decision to relieve Mercado, without giving him a proper turnover ceremony. I requested them a meeting and explained to them the root cause why Admiral Mercado was relieved.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer January 08, 2018 10:41 UTC