Photo credit: AFP

Gen. Eduardo Manahan Año (Ret.) is a distinguished military officer and public servant in the Philippines, known for his unwavering dedication to national security and governance.

Born on October 26, 1961, in San Mateo, Rizal, Año demonstrated academic excellence early in life, graduating as valedictorian in elementary school. His commitment to service led him straight to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), where he became a proud member of the Matikas Class of 1983, graduating cum laude.

Military Career and Achievements

Año built an exceptional military career marked by his expertise in intelligence and counterterrorism. His brilliance was evident when he ranked first in all military courses he attended, both locally and abroad. Notably, in 1993, he topped the International Officer Intelligence Course at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, USA, with a perfect score of 100%, a record that remains unbeaten.

His career saw him assume key military positions, including:
• Commander, Intelligence and Security Group, Philippine Army
• Chief, Intelligence Service, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
• Commander, 10th Infantry (Agila) Division
• 57th Commanding General, Philippine Army
• 48th Chief of Staff, AFP

Año played a crucial role in neutralizing high-value terrorist and communist targets, earning a legendary status in the intelligence community. His leadership as Martial Law Administrator in Mindanao during the 2017 Marawi Crisis showcased his strategic expertise and strengthened public trust in the military. Under his command, the AFP achieved its highest net satisfaction rating.

Awards and Recognitions

His remarkable service has earned him over 70 awards, medals, and decorations, including:
• Philippine Military Academy Cavalier Award (1996) for excellence in Army Operations
• Philippine Legion of Honor (Degree of Chief Commander)
• Panglima Gagah Angkatan Tentera (PGAT) from His Majesty, the King of Malaysia

Government Service

After retiring from the military, Año transitioned to government service. He served as:
• Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) under President Rodrigo Duterte
• National Security Adviser (NSA) under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

In January 2023, Año replaced Clarita Carlos as National Security Adviser, bringing his deep expertise in defense and intelligence to the role.

Personal Life

A devoted Catholic and advocate of servant leadership, Año believes in the power of teamwork and integrity. He is happily married to Jean Joselyn Maria R. Dioso, and they have four children: Edwin Jr., Edward, Janelle Marie, and Jasmine Claire.

Gen. Eduardo Año’s legacy continues to inspire those in the military, intelligence, and public service sectors, embodying dedication, excellence, and unwavering patriotism.