File photo of Brig. Gen. Joselito “Jokakz” Kakilala as a resource speaker during an international forum on Islam radicalism at a hotel in Pasig City. JAIME SINAPIT, InterAksyon.com
One of the military's most noted intellectuals but also a veteran combat officer, Brig. Gen. Joselito Kakilala, is taking over the helm of the Civil Relations Service (CRS) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Kakilala, known for his exploits as strategic thinker and civil-military operations planner and implementer, assumes the CRS post Wednesday (Feb. 11) but will keep in concurrent capacity his position as chief of the Special Studies, Strategic Management Office (OSSSM), an office under the auspices of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans (J5).
The AFP Vice Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. John Bonafos will preside at the CRS turnover.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Maharlika” Class 1984, Kakilala is replacing as CRS chief Brig. Gen. Romeo Gan (PMA “Matikas Class 1983).
Gan was recently designated commander of the Army’s 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division based in Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal.
Experienced in fighting insurgents
When he commanded the 903rd Infantry Brigade, Kakilala and his men were credited with the neutralization of key communist leaders and cadres - notably Frankie Joe Soriano alias Greg Bañares, spokesman of the Bicol region's Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (NDFP), operating in his area of jurisdiction.
Kakilala is a recipient of the The Outstanding Philippine Soldiers award for deserving soldiers (in 2008) given by the MetroBank Foundation.
On the eve of his installation to the CRS, Kakilala was described thus by AFP Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. “Brig. Gen. Kakilala earned a reputation characterized by successful stints in combat and administrative leadership and academic excellence. He had also previously served in the CRS as its Chief of Staff, providing him with the wealth of experience needed by a Commander.”
Kakilala's outstanding military track record and upright service reputation were recognized not only in the military organization, but also in other government and civil society organizations, making him a credible choice for the CRS.
Impressive combat record
Before being named to his current post as Chief of the AFP Strategic Studies and Strategy Management, Kakilala saw action as combat officer in Central Luzon and Bicol Region. The 45th Infantry Battalion and the 903rd Infantry Brigade thaht he led were cited as the Best Battalion in 2006 and Best Brigade in 2013 and 2014, respectively.
His anti-insurgency campaign in the Bicol Region as Commander of the 903rd IB netted ranking NPAs of the Bicol Regional Party Committee.
Before Bicol, he chalked up extensive experience as a young officer in the hinterlands of Basilan, Surigao, and Agusan Provinces - all of which honed his skills and expertise in tactical operations.
Decorated officer
Kakilala has received numerous awards and recognition for his professionalism and commitment to public service.
In 2011 he received the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award in 2011 for upholding the highest moral standards, professionalism, and commitment to public service.
Kakilala also received the highly coveted Cavalier Award for Army Operations in 2009 from the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association Inc.
In 2008, Kakilala was selected as one of the Ten Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) by the Rotary Club of Makati Metro and Metrobank Foundation, Inc.
In 2014, he also received the Award for Continuing Excellence and Service from the Metrobank Foundation, an award given to TOPS winners who have continued to stand out in their positions.
The incoming CRS Commander is also a recipient of three Distinguished Service Stars; one Gold Cross Medal, which is the third highest award for bravery; four Bronze Cross Medals; several military merit medals; wounded personnel medal; and various awards and decorations.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/104790/new-afp-crs-chief-general-kakilala-combines-brains-and-rich-combat-experience
The Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) is the Psychological Operations (PSYOP)/Civil Military Operations (CMO) arm of the Philippine military.
ReplyDelete