Davalan promotion defended

From Malaya (Aug 9): Davalan promotion defended

THE Army yesterday defended the designation of Col. Eduardo Davalan as commander of the elite First Scout Ranger Regiment amid questions about his reputation in the service.

Army spokesman Lt. Col. Randolph Cabangbang said the Army leadership recommended Davalan, who assumed the post last April, because he is a “competent officer.”

“He is a well-rounded officer with operations as his expertise,” said Cabangbang.

Malaya columnist Romeo Lim, a retired Scout Ranger, said he has gotten persistent reports about the alleged poor management and leadership skills of Davalan, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1985.

After Davalan assumed the post, Lim said, the chief of staff, and personnel, intelligence, operations and training officers of the FSRR left the unit, without waiting for an available assignment.

Cabangbang said Davalan said is “hardworking” and is respected by his “subordinates, peers, seniors and even foreign officers.”

“In the few years that I served under him, I learned many things. I know no other officer who knows so much about joint operations, special operations and campaign planning,” added Cabangbang who once served under Davalan in another unit.

“It is not true that there are derogatory reports against Colonel Davalan. Had there been, then the Army would not have recommended him. In truth, he is the most qualified full colonel to lead FSRR,” Cabangbang said.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/index.php/news/nation/38080-davalan-promotion-defended