Newly-appointed PA chief vows to continue programs started by predecessors

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 22): Newly-appointed PA chief vows to continue programs started by predecessors

As Lt. Gen. Noel A. Coballes formally assumed the top post of the Philippine Army Tuesday afternoon, the former expressed his willingness to continue programs and projects initiated by his predecessors. Coballes also pledged to ensure the continuity of initiatives started by his predecessor, now AFP chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Emmanuel T. Bautista, and others before him. "With earnest commitment with this, I urge everyone to help me lead an Army worthy of our countrymen's trust," he pointed out.

The new PA commander also added that foundations have been already laid for the Army (Transformation) Roadmap; the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Internal Peace and Security Plan ' Bayanihan' which is now strongly being felt by the Filipino people.

"As we have established and is continually establishing partnership with international and local leaders and various stakeholders; we have reached a landmark on the Peace Framework Agreement in our intent to end economic and security instability in the Southern Philippines. All of these endeavors, I take share of responsibility in the pursuit of making our aspirations a reality," Coballes stressed.

He added that being appointed PA chief is a great honor but the latter is also a challenge as the mid-term elections are fast approaching. "I would admit that this is a very delicate time to be the commanding general of the PA," Coballes stressed.

But he believes that this situation can be easily be conquered as the Army thrives on excellence and will do its best to perform its mandate to protect the country and its people. "My leadership will continue on pursuing the collective vision of a formidable PA - a world-class Army that is a source of national pride," he stressed.

Coballes also vowed to endeavor to direct the course of the PA that is focused on achieving results and that everyone should be part of the team. "Everyone must do their share - everyone must act with urgency, the Filipino people expects that every Army man and woman must strive to accomplish their respective jobs, honorably, morally, and in the right way for we must never fail their expectations," the newly-appointed Army commander stated.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=489847