Marcos urges vigilance amid regional tensions as he names new army chief

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., on Thursday urged his newly appointed Philippine Army chief to show strong leadership and vigilance as the country faces growing global uncertainty and security threats.

- 

At a change of command ceremony held at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City, the President cited the importance of firm and focused leadership 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 a firm commitment,” Mr. Marcos told Lieutenant General Antonio G. Nafarrete, according to a transcript from the Presidential Communications Office.

“I have full confidence that under your command, the Philippine Army will remain steadfast [as] a pillar of strength, integrity [and] professionalism,” he added.

Mr. Nafarrete’s appointment as the 67th commanding general of the Philippine Army comes at a time of heightened tensions in the South China Sea and rising global instability.