Lieutenant General Antonio G. Nafarrete, former Commanding General of the Philippine Army, assumed command as the 61st Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during a formal Change of Command Ceremony presided over by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Lt. Gen. Nafarrete succeeds General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., who completed his distinguished tenure upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 58.
In his address to the troops and dignitaries, President Marcos—acting in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief—charged the incoming military leadership with safeguarding the republic’s sovereignty and ensuring the welfare of its citizens.
“The command entrusted to you is great, but the purpose is even greater: to safeguard our people, defend every inch of our land and waters, and secure the future of our Republic,” President Marcos stated. “The command changes hands, but the mission remains. And the duty to defend our flag never ends.”
President Marcos reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s defense apparatus while reiterating the Philippines’ steadfast commitment to international law, diplomacy, and regional stability.
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Continued Investment: The administration pledged ongoing support for the capability, readiness, and overall welfare of the armed forces to maintain a credible defense posture.
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Diplomatic Firmness: While emphasizing that the Philippines remains a peace-seeking nation, the President stressed that national dignity and territorial integrity will never be compromised.
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Principled Engagement: “We seek cooperation, but we will never compromise our sovereignty. We extend friendship to all, but we will never abandon our national dignity. That has always been the Filipino way,” President Marcos emphasized.
President Marcos expressed absolute confidence in Lt. Gen. Nafarrete’s capability to lead the 150,000-strong active duty force, citing his extensive operational and strategic command background across key military posts:
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Commanding General, Philippine Army
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Commander, Western Mindanao Command (WESTMINCOM)
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Commander, 1st Infantry Division
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Commander, 6th Infantry Division
“You now inherit a force made stronger by those who came before you. Your task is now to build upon that,” President Marcos remarked, noting that Nafarrete’s deep experience provides the wisdom required to guide the AFP through evolving security challenges.
