Luna is new AFP deputy chief of staff for intelligence

October 16, 2020

Brig. General Alex Luna assumed as the new deputy chief of staff for intelligence in a change of chief of office ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo on Friday.

Capt. Jonathan Zata, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Public Affairs Chief, said the ceremony held at the general headquarters building was  presided by Rear Admiral Erick Kagaoan, Armed Forces of the Philippines deputy chief of staff.

"Prior to his appointment as deputy chief for intelligence, BGen. Luna served as the Commander of the Joint Task Force – NCR (JTF-NCR). In his stint as JTF Commander, he led his troops in COVID-19 response efforts while continuing counterinsurgency activities," he said.

 Luna was also assigned in Eastern Samar as commander of the 801st Brigade and co-chairman of E-CLIP (Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program ) Committee.

"His expertise in the field of intelligence operations came from his experiences in the Army intelligence regiment, including his designation as Army assistant chief of staff for intelligence, G2," he added.

In his speech,  Kagaoan expressed trust and confidence in Luna as he urged him to sustain the progress started by his  predecessors.

“I urge you to sustain the progress started by your predecessors and perform your tasks with utmost commitment and dedication. We trust in your abilities and we look forward to more accomplishments under your helmsmanship,” Kagaoan said.

Zata said Luna replaced Major General Greg Almerol who will now be the commander of the 2nd Infantry Division in Tanay, Rizal.

"Major Gen Almerol is a member of Philippine Military Class of 1989. Enemy forces decreased by 2,234 members and supporters through 148 intelligence projects and 284 case operations that Major Gen. Almerol initiated," he said.

Zata said the deputy chief of staff also commended Almerol for his contributions.

“Major Gen. Almerol is well-known for his expertise, competency, and high sense of responsibility. During his stint, Major Gen. Almerol has broadened the security perspective of the AFP by enhancing the intelligence operations that address the nation's stability against various threats despite the challenges brought by the pandemic,” said Kagaoan. Robina Asido/DMS