Presidential Security Group chief gets first star

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 26, 2023): Presidential Security Group chief gets first star (By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos)

ONE-STAR GENERAL. Presidential Security Group (PSG) chief Col. Ramon Zagala (2nd from right) earned his first star after being promoted to Brigadier General. The donning of rank ceremony for Zagala was led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday (Jan. 25, 2023). (Photo courtesy of the Office of the President)

MANILA – Presidential Security Group (PSG) chief Col. Ramon Zagala has been promoted to one-star general, earning the rank of Brigadier General.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the donning of ranks rites at Malacañan Palace in Manila on Wednesday, based on the photo shared by the Office of the President (OP) on its official Facebook page.

In a short video clip shared by Radio Television Malacañang on Facebook, Marcos was seen pinning the star of Zagala, who was accompanied by his wife, Nenita, and their son.

The donning of ranks ceremony is a time-honored tradition that celebrates and acknowledges the commitment, excellence, and leadership capabilities of those who advance in their military careers.

The PSG, in a Facebook post, congratulated Zagala for his "well-deserved promotion."

Zagala, a seasoned military officer, belongs to a family whose military heritage spans three generations, from his grandfather, Col. Ramon Zagala, to his father, Maj. Gen. Rafael Zagala.

Zagala was installed as the head of the PSG on July 4, 2022, replacing then outgoing commander Brig. Gen. Randolph Cabangbang.

Before being appointed PSG commander, Zagala served as spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

Zagala took up AB Political Science at the De La Salle University in Manila where he graduated in 1991.

He then entered the Officer Candidate School in 1993 and became his class' First Captain, earning him the Chief of Staff Saber.

He was commissioned to the regular force on Aug. 9, 1994, and later held various command and staff positions in different Army and General Headquarters units covering Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Zagala also received various awards and commendations for his sterling service record in both administrative and combat duties.

He was a recipient of the Distinguished Service Star, Gold Cross Medal for gallantry in combat, Gawad sa Kaunlaran Medal, two Bronze Cross Medals, 19 Military Merit Medals (three in combat), AFP Senior Parachutist Badge, Army Aviator's Badge, US public affairs badge, the Presidential Medal of Merit and other distinguished awards and decorations.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1193611