Outgoing Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Delfin Lorenzana expressed confidence on Saturday, June 25, that Clarita Carlos, the top security adviser of the incoming administration, will be able to lead the National Security Council (NSC) to greater heights.
Lorenzana and Carlos met last Wednesday, June 22, as the transition of power officially began between President Duterte and President Marcos Jr.’s Cabinet members.
“ had a pleasant and insightful chat with incoming National Security Adviser, Dr. Clarita Carlos, a few days ago,” Lorenzana said.
The Defense chief said Carlos’ appointment was a sort of a “homecoming” to the DND since she also served as the 16th President of the National Defense College of the Philippines (NDCP) from 1998 to 2001. The NDCP is an educational, training, and research agency of the government in matters related to national defense and security.
He said Carlos holds the distinction of “being the first and only female civilian to lead the higher institution for national defense and security.”
Lorenzana, who described Carlos as “feisty” and “media savvy,” added: “We’re happy to have you back, Prof. Claire!”
Meanwhile, Carlos said that she had a “lively riveting” conversation with Lorenzana as they exchanged views about security issues.
“I love listening and learning from officials like SND , who have been there in the hustlings,” the retired professor said.
“It is so gratifying that I can see the seamlessness of the transition from the outgoing administration to the incoming... What a great feeling!” she added.
Carlos will face a multitude of security challenges that range from communist insurgency, terrorism, and the overlapping territorial claims in the South China Sea among others.
The NSC is a unit under the Office of the President which serves as the principal advisory body on the proper coordination and integration of plans and policies affecting national security.
The NSC said on Friday, June 24, that Carlos and outgoing NSA Hermogenes Esperon Jr. already held a transition meeting where both officials held a "general agreement" on the Council’s priority projects.