New AFP Chief formally assumes command

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 4) — Lt. Gen. Felimon Santos Jr. has officially been named the new Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in a change of command ceremony on Saturday.

Outgoing Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Noel Clement turned over the helm of the military to the Eastern Mindanao head in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City. Clement is retiring after a three-month stint. President Rodrigo Duterte also attended the event.

In a short speech, the President praised Clement for his “principled and irreproachable leadership in fighting insurgency and securing our sovereignty.”

He added that he is confident in the leadership of Santos.

“Under the command of General Santos, I am confident that the AFP will further achieve more milestones in protecting freedom and democratic values,” said Duterte in his prepared speech.

Santos thanked the President for the opportunity and vowed to continue the efforts to counter insurgency from local terrorist groups.

“The AFP will continue to be proactive against the local terrorist groups...We shall effectively counter their narratives through good governance, build community trust and earn their people’s respect,” said Santos.

Among his other points of focus is also working towards achieving and preserving peace in the Bangsamoro region and with the Moro National Liberation Front.

“We will strive to secure our sovereign territory while bringing peace, development and progress to the island of Mindanao,” said Santos.

He added that “securing lasting peace” will be the military’s slogan under his leadership.