MANILA – The Office of the Vice President (OVP) was blindsided by the abrupt reassignment of Colonel Raymund Dante Lachica, head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Security and Protection Group in charge of Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio’s security, learning of his relief only after the order had been handed down.
In a statement sent to Panay News, the OVP confirmed that it had no prior notice or explanation from the AFP regarding the decision.
“The Office of the Vice President was informed of the relief of Col. Raymund Dante Lachica upon his receipt of the order yesterday, October 6, 2025,” the OVP said. “No message or explanation was given to the OVP.”
Lachica’s sudden removal raised questions within the Vice President’s camp, especially given his close role in overseeing Duterte-Carpio’s security detail. The OVP extended its gratitude to Lachica for his “resoluteness, professionalism, and integrity,” adding that the office “accomplished more than our targets because of his support to the vision of a life of peace and comfort for all Filipinos.”
The AFP, however, clarified that Lachica was reassigned to the Philippine Army on October 4 following a complaint filed against him before the Office of the Ombudsman. Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Israel Eleosida has since been designated as acting commander of the Security and Protection Group.
“The AFP ensures a smooth transition of leadership to maintain the efficiency and professionalism of the ASPG in the performance of its mandated mission,” the military said in a statement.
Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro sought to allay concerns about the security arrangement for the Vice President, assuring lawmakers that her protection remains intact.
“All mandated officials po are provided with appropriate security,” Teodoro told members of Congress.
The security leadership shuffle comes amid continuing scrutiny of Duterte-Carpio’s use of confidential funds. In 2024, OVP disbursing officer Gina Acosta told Congress that the Vice President had authorized the transfer of P125 million in confidential funds to Lachica in 2022./PN
