New Army chief vows to continue reforms

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 16): New Army chief vows to continue reforms

Efforts to transform the Philippine Army into a first-class military will continue, newly-appointed PA chief Major Gen. Macairog S. Alberto said Monday.

Alberto made the promise during his assumption-of-command ceremonies at PA headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

This will be done by continuing the implementation of the Army Transformation Roadmap (ATR) initiatives which seeks to turn PA into a world-class Army by 2028.

"Moreover, with the PA gaining its momentum in its Army Transformation Roadmap, Major General Alberto expressed that he will continue to sustain the implementation of its ATR initiatives in order to meet its vision to be a world-class Army by 2028," Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva said in a statement Monday.

Alberto said he will try to transform the 98,000-strong PA into a force capable of meeting current and emerging threats.

“I will endeavor to make the Philippine Army a more agile force, one that is prepared and able to meet current and emerging threats,” he added.

The new PA chief also expressed commitment to develop Army capabilities, organize and train soldiers both in active and reserve units, and look after the moral and welfare of the troops.

Villanueva earlier said Alberto is a well-rounded officer and highly respected leader and commander having distinguished himself in the field of combat, intelligence, and civil military operations.

He added that the new PA chief is known for his dedication, a "silent worker" yet a "passionate performer".

"He always put his heart in every mission that needs to be accomplished. He is kind-hearted, cool and always gives premium on the welfare of his men," the PA spokesperson added.

Alberto, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, replaced Bautista, a member of PMA Class 1985, who formally retired Monday after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56.

Bautista was earlier named by President Rodrigo Duterte to head the Department of Social Welfare and Development. Villanueva said Alberto is a graduate of various courses both local and abroad.

"Significant is the Scout Ranger Course, Strategic Intel Course, Counter-Terrorism Fellowship Program and Master of Arts (Strategic Studies) from (the) National Defense University, USA. He also hold masters in Public Management Major in Development and Security from (the) Development Academy of the Philippines," he added.

Alberto also served as commanding officer of the 2nd and 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion, Task Force Davao head prior his designation as 1001st Infantry Brigade head, a unit of the 10th Infantry Division in Mindanao before appointment as head of the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

"He is also a recipient of various awards and decors, to name a few, Military Commendation Medal, Military Merit Medal, Bronze Cross Medal, UN Service Medal/Ribbon, Silver Wing Medal, Gold Cross Medal and Distinguished Service Medal," Villanueva added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1051156