New commander of naval forces in Eastern Mindanao sworn in

From the Manila Bulletin (May 8): New commander of naval forces in Eastern Mindanao sworn in

Navy captain Antonio Habulan, Jr. took over the highest position of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) on Tuesday, May 7, replacing Commodore Isabelo Gador who will assume as commander of the naval forces in Western Mindanao in Zamboanga.

The turn-over ceremony held at the NFEM headquarters here was spearheaded by Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano, the flag officer-in-command of the Philippine Navy.

In his acceptance speech, Habulan said he will support the peace and order activities of the Eastern Mindanao Command of the AFP. He added that his command will also serve actively to ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of elections in their area of responsibility.

The new navy commander also urged his command, including the Philippine Marines to remain loyal and supportive to the government in performing their tasks and responsibilities in the upcoming polls.

Habulan also stressed that he will continue the programs that was started by the previous command of NFEM and will further push for the reforms and ideals of the Philippine Navy.

“I know there might be some refinements but we’ll look at it and see where we are right now and push it forward for all these activities were geared to the betterment of the organization, at our level all the way to the Navy,” Habulan said.

Vice Admiral Alano challenged Habulan to have logical reasoning in carrying out his responsibilities. Giving out orders is not enough, Alano added, but a leader must lead in front by example, he emphasized.

Habulan, prior to his new assignment, was the deputy commander of the Naval Education and Training Command in Zambales.

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