Brigadier General Marcelino V. Teofilo takes over as Joint Task Force-NCR Commander

From the Philippine Information Agency (Oct 20, 2020): Brigadier General Marcelino V. Teofilo takes over as Joint Task Force-NCR Commander (By Nonette N. Castillo)

CALOOCAN CITY, Oct. 20 (PIA) -- Brigadier General Marceliano V. Teofilo today formally assumed command of the Joint Task Force – National Capital Region (JTF-NCR) in a Change of Command Ceremony at the AFP Commissioned Officers Country in Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Gilbert I. Gapay presided over the ceremony that officially transferred the JTF-NCR command from Brigadier General Alex DC Luna to Teofilo.

The Joint Task Force-NCR is assigned to combat terrorism and insurgency in the area. It also acts as a support unit to the Philippine National Police in securing peace and order within Metro Manila.

“Considering JTF-NCR’s focus on preventing CTGs and other terrorist groups from operating and bringing their influence in Metro Manila, BGen. Teofilo’s experiences in various units of the ISAFP will be utilized to further intensify intelligence and counter-intelligence operations of this command,” Gapay said.

Teofilo previously held positions in 203rd Brigade, 2ID as Commander and 2nd Infantry “Jungle Fighter” Division as Assistant Division Commander. He also served as the Commander of Joint Task Force Taal where he led response efforts during Taal Volcano’s eruption early this year.

During the ceremony, Gapay also praised the outgoing JTF-NCR Commander Luna. “BGen. Luna’s outstanding leadership enabled JTF-NCR to attain achievements worthy of our country’s acknowledgement and appreciation,” the AFP chief said.

During Luna’s stint as Commander, the JTF-NCR stepped up as one of the implementers of strict health protocols against COVID-19. They have also assisted the NCR Police Office by ensuring the safety of foreign delegates and venues during the Southeast Asian Games 2019. JTF-NCR also took an active part in crippling Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operations through the newly-created Joint Intelligence Task Group.

“I therefore urge the entire TEAM JTF-NCR to give your all-out support to your new commander and together, as a team, you will surely surpass every challenge presented before you and bring honor to the AFP and our whole nation,” Gapay said. (PIA NCR)

https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1056516