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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos confident in new Army chief amid growing geopolitical tensions

Marcos confident in new Army chief amid growing geopolitical tensions

Published Jul 31, 2025 11:43 am
President Marcos expressed confidence that new Philippine Army chief Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete will maintain the Army's integrity and professionalism.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and 67th Philippine Army Commanding General Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete (RTVM)
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and 67th Philippine Army Commanding General Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete (RTVM)
Marcos led the change of command of the Philippine Army on Thursday, July 31 at the Fort Andres Bonifacio in Taguig City.
He named Nafarrete as the new commander of the Army, replacing Lieutenant General Roy Galido who retired on the same day.
In his speech, the President said he is optimistic with Nafarrete's leadership, recognizing that he rose to the helm of the Philippine Army amid geopolitical tensions and global uncertainty.
"You will be assuming your role 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," Marcos told Nafarrete.
"But I have full confidence that under your command, the Philippine Army will remain steadfast [as] a pillar of strength and integrity, professionalism," he added.
The commander-in-chief also assured the Philippine Army that we will remain supportive of the effort to strengthen the force.
"We owe you nothing less than our full support," he said.
"Nawa’y magsilbi itong inspirasyon upang mas magampanan ng Philippine Army ang kanyang tungkulin—ang magsilbi sa bayan ng may tibay ng loob, may paninindigan, at katapatan (May this serve as an inspiration for the Philippine Army to better fulfill its duty—to serve the nation with courage, conviction, and loyalty)," he added.
Nafarrete is the 67th Philippine Army commanding general.
Meanwhile, Marcos also acknowledged the leadership of Galido who has served the organization for more than three decades.
He said that under Galido's watch, the Philippine Army has made great strides on and off the battlefield, pursuing peace through civil-military operations that led to the surrender of armed fighters.
"You have strengthened our bonds with our allies to improve how we share intelligence, how we conduct joint operations. Our Reserve Force has also stepped up in times of disasters, bringing relief and hope to affected communities," Marcos said.
"You forged partnerships with other government agencies and sectors, expanding camps, developing bases, and turning Army lands into self-sustaining spaces," Marcos added.
"The Army has been enriched by your service and will grow stronger under the leadership of its next Commanding General," he further said.
Galido is a member of the Philippine Army Academy (PMA) “Bigkis-Lahi” Class of 1990. He is a former Army inspector general and a commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

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