By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has launched an “in-depth investigation and review” of records, orders, and promotion boards involving reserve personnel following questions about promotions, decorations, and the wearing of military uniforms.
The PAF said any verified violation of its rules would be dealt with under existing regulations, stressing transparency, compliance and meritocracy in both its active and reserve forces.
The review comes after a photo of former 1-Pacman Rep. Michael Romero, a PAF reservist holding the rank of brigadier general, circulated online showing him in uniform with numerous badges and decorations.
The image drew questions over how Romero appeared to have decorations comparable to those worn by AFP chief of staff Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, who was also pictured.
Romero maintained that his rank, appointments and awards were officially granted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and supported by general orders and permanent military records.
He also cited his legislative work on military pay, the acquisition of three C-130J aircraft and more than 60 civil-military and humanitarian activities as part of his service.
The PAF review is being conducted alongside an AFP policy review on awards, decorations and uniform use by reservists.
AFP public affairs chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad, meanwhile, reminded reservists that they are not automatically authorized to wear military uniforms while on inactive duty.
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