The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Tuesday designated Rear Admiral Roberto Enriquez as the new commander of the Western Command (WesCom), the unit which is responsible for all the military operations in the islands of Palawan, including the disputed Kalayaan Islands Group in the West Philippine Sea.
(MANILA BULLETIN)
Captain Jonathan Zata, chief of the AFP public affairs office, confirmed Enriquez' appointment to the media after it was approved by the Commander-in-Chief, President Duterte.
"We are confirming that indeed, Rear Adm. Enriquez is the incoming commander of the Western Command," Zata said.
Zata described Enriquez as "a well-seasoned naval officer, having commanded major and several types of commissioned vessels."
"He distinguished himself not only in the naval operations but also in naval intelligence. His leadership acumen or his positive leadership impresses us," he added.
Enriquez took over from Lieutenant General Erickson Gloria, who now serves as the AFP Vice Chief of Staff following the retirement of Vice Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr. last Saturday.
Zata expressed confidence that Enriquez' "brand of leadership will provide result to his new assignment."
Enriquez is a product of the Philippine Military Academy "Maringal" Class of 1988.
Prior to the new post, Enriquez had served as the deputy chief of staff for reservist and retiree affairs, and commander of the Naval Force of Eastern Mindanao (NFEM).