Manila, March 6 -- The Court of Appeals has upheld the leadership of Rafael Vincent Calinisan as commissioner and vice chairperson and executive officer (VCEO) of the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM).

In a 28-page decision penned by Associate Justice Rafael Antonio Santos, the CA's 13th Division denied the appeal filed by former NAPOLCOM commissioner Alberto Bernardo against Calinisan's appointment.

Bernardo, who availed of optional retirement benefits from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) in 2023, sought Calinisan's removal, claiming he remained the lawful holder of the post after his March 2022 appointment with a fixed term until 2028.

He challenged Calinisan's appointment before the Manila Regional Trial Court Bra...