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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider New Army chief vows to focus on preparing soldiers for modern warfare

New Army chief vows to focus on preparing soldiers for modern warfare

Published Jul 31, 2025 12:18 pm
Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, 67th Commanding General of the Philippine Army. (photo: Philippine Army)
Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, 67th Commanding General of the Philippine Army. (photo: Philippine Army)
Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, newly-appointed commanding general of the Philippine Army, vowed to invest more on human capital development of soldiers in order to maximize their potential for modern warfare.
In his speech during the turnover of command on Thursday, July 31, Nafarrete stressed that the support system for soldiers must be strong and evolving being the most important assets of the Philippine Army.
“We are entering an era where wars are not only fought with bullets, but also with bytes. Where borders are tested not just by battalions, but by bandwidths. Where battles can be won or lost through morale, awareness and unity,” said Nafarrete.
“Under my command, our focus will be centered on human capital development — a mission within our mission — to invest not just in what we fight with, but in who fights,” he added.
Nafarrete said his leadership will focus on five focus areas: personnel, morale, health, education and finances.
He explained that these five areas are important in preparing soldiers for the challenges of modern warfare.
“Each and every soldier, remember this, you are not just part of the force, you are the force. You are not just defending the nation, you are the nation,” said Nafarrete.
“Our strength is our personnel, and as your commander, I pledge to be a commander that puts you, your growth, your welfare, your future at the center of everything we do,” he stressed.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 1990, Nafarrete took over the position from his classmate, Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido who reached the mandatory retirement age of 56.
In a statement, the Department of National Defense (DND) lauded Nafarrete’s appointment as the 67th Philippine Army chief.
“The Department of National Defense congratulates Lt. Gen. Nafarrete on his appointment. He brings with him a wealth of experience and leadership, having most recently served as Commander of the Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom),” the statement read.
“The Department expresses its full confidence in his ability to lead the Philippine Army with honor, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to duty,” it added.
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