President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. formally installed Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete as the new Commanding General of the Philippine Army today, reaffirming his full support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
In a turnover of command ceremony held at the Philippine Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, President Marcos expressed his confidence that the Philippine Army would continue to be a pillar of strength, integrity, and professionalism under its new leadership.
“As your Commander-in-Chief, I promise that we will continue to strengthen our Armed Forces,” President Marcos said. “We owe you nothing less than our full support.”
Lieutenant General Nafarrete, the 67th commander of the 110,000-strong Philippine Army, succeeds Lieutenant General Roy Galido, who retired after reaching the mandatory age of 57.
Addressing Nafarrete directly, President Marcos acknowledged the global challenges ahead. “You will be assuming your role at a time when geopolitical tensions and global uncertainty are high. This will demand your vigilance and leadership to deliver clear direction and to show firm commitment,” he stated.
Prior to his appointment, Lieutenant General Nafarrete served as the commander of the AFP’s Western Mindanao Command, where he was responsible for defending against insurgents and militants in the region. He also previously commanded the Army’s 6th Infantry Division.
