New Army chief promises Duterte he will boost capability to face threats

October 15, 2018

New Army chief Maj. Gen. Macairog Alberto assured President Rodrigo Duterte Monday that he will make the country’s main fighting force ready to face threats.

 Duterte installed Alberto as the new Army chief, replacing   Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista who retired in a  command turnover ceremony at the Philippine Army headquarters at Fort Bonifacio. Bautista will head the Department of Social Welfare and Development, said Duterte.

“Today, the leadership of your Army has been passed on to me. On my shoulder lies the responsibility of providing the leadership and management to the entire Philippine. I am honored and grateful to served, ready to meet the challenges and with God’s blessings and your support we will succeed,” Alberto said  in his speech.

“Criminal groups, lawless elements, external security concerns and even the threat of natural calamities require our army to be prepared  to meet these challenges," added Alberto.

Alberto said he wants to combine local defense and public safety system to make localities more resilient against threats and disasters.

A member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, Alberto was Joint Task Force Davao commander before he was tapped to head the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP). DMS