MANILA – The Philippine government announced Wednesday that its National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano has stepped down from his position for health-related reasons, with former military commander Eduardo Oban set to take his place.
Communications undersecretary Claire Castro addressed the transition during a government briefing, stating: “The President has accepted the resignation of National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano. Secretary Ano has decided to retire from public service after decades of continuous service in government and the military.”
The leadership transition occurs as tensions continue to escalate between the Philippines and China over disputed waters in the South China Sea, with both nations blaming each other for provocative encounters in the maritime region.
Ano’s departure comes as he prioritizes his personal well-being, particularly given his history of cardiac health issues. The outgoing adviser disclosed in 2021 that he had undergone several heart operations.
During his tenure, Ano spearheaded the Philippines’ “transparency initiative,” a program designed to expose what Manila characterized as China’s hostile behavior toward Filipino maritime personnel and fishing crews in contested waters.
The departing security chief built an extensive military background, notably serving as the armed forces’ top commander during the intense Marawi conflict in 2017. Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, Ano emerged as one of the strongest voices opposing Beijing’s actions in the region.
His replacement, Oban, previously held the position of military chief during the administration of former President Benigno Aquino, though his tenure was brief.
