New Presidential Security Group (PSG) commander Colonel Ramon Zagala intends to focus on training, personnel welfare, and stakeholder engagement as he took over the force tasked to ensure the first family's security.
Zagala was installed as the new commander of the PSG on Monday, July 4. He replaced Brigadier General Randolph Cabangbang, also of the Philippine Army.
In his remark during the change of command ceremony, he outlined his intention for the PSG in order for it to be an "effective deterrent" against possible harm to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and his family.
"During my time as a PSG Commander, I intend to focus primarily on three points: training, personnel welfare, and stakeholder engagement," Zagala, the former spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), said.
"I intend to provide our troops with the necessary regular training they need to do their duty to the best of their abilities. I believe that a well-trained highly-skilled team will be the best defense and will be an effective deterrent against those that may want to do harm," he added.
He committed to empower the PSG troop by prioritizing their welfare and morale, which, he said, needs to be constantly safeguarded.
The new PSG chief stressed that "a PSG trooper who is well-trained, well-supported, and motivated will go beyond the call of duty."
Zagala also encouraged his men to always be professional and loyal to the Constitution and the country in fulfilling their duties.
"I expect each one of you to remain professional and loyal to the Constitution and our country. Be competent in the job at hand, be kind and compassionate, be humble, but also be firm and steadfast when needed," the PSG commander said.
Zagala said that being tapped to lead the PSG is a chance for him to complete the mission after his first assignment to the force two decades ago ended abruptly "due to circumstances beyond our control."
"To come back here and complete the task initially given to me some two decades ago is a privilege, too big to be taken lightly. I now have the chance to complete the mission and to come full circle from where I started as a lieutenant in this hallowed ground," Zagala said.
The 52-year-old officer holds a degree in AB Political Science at the De La Salle University in Manila graduating in 1990.
He was commissioned to the Regular Force on Aug. 9,1994 and was assigned to different Army and units covering Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, holding various command and staff positions.