MANILA, Philippines (Update 1) - President Arroyo on Monday appointed Army chief Lt. Gen. Delfin Bangit as the new chief of staff of the Armed Forces.

In an ambush interview, Mrs. Arroyo said turnover ceremonies for the new military chief will be held either Tuesday or Wednesday.

Bangit will replace AFP chief Gen. Victor Ibrado who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56 on March 10, the same date that the 60-day election ban on presidential appointments starts.

Various sectors earlier urged Mrs. Arroyo to extend Ibrado’s term, saying it would ensure the smooth conduct of the May elections, and give the new president a free hand in choosing his AFP chief. They also questioned the move to appoint Bangit as AFP chief since he is perceived to be close to Mrs. Arroyo.

Bangit, a former chief of the Presidential Security Group chief, is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class 1978 which has President Arroyo as an honorary member. He is a former commander of the AFP Southern Luzon Command based in Lucena City and also served as commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division.

In a statement, Bangit said he is very thankful with the President's decision to appoint him chief of the country's Armed Forces.

"More than it is an honor for me, I would like to assure the people that I will do my very best to serve the interest of this nation and the Filipino people. Just like what I did when I assumed command of the Philippine Army, I assured every member of the organization that I will be a very, very good commander to them," he said.

He added that he will announce his plans and undertaking when he assumes the post of chief of staff.

Sen. Francis Escudero, meanwhile, said Bangit should prove and show his impartiality and commitment to clean, honest and peaceful elections.

"Given his closeness to GMA, He must prove himself to our people and must be above suspicion," he said.  With a report from RG Cruz, ABS-CBN News