Outgoing AFP chief: Galvez very capable of leading military

MANILA -- Incoming Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez is very capable of leading the 120,000-strong military, outgoing AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero said Sunday.

Guerrero said Galvez's competence was proven by his ability to lead and command various forces which includes battalion and brigade-sized formations.

Aside from this, Galvez also served as staff officer at the AFP General Headquarters and special duties as head of the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities.

"Most recently, he has distinguished himself as a Western Mindanao commander during the Marawi Siege. So he (is) more than capable," Guerrero said.

Guerrero, who is scheduled to step down on Wednesday, is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1984.

His replacement, Galvez, is a member of PMA Class of 1985.

The incoming AFP chief was a recipient of the United States Eisenhower Fellowships in 2006 and was adjudged as one of the “The Outstanding Philippine Soldier (TOPS) in 2007.

During Galvez's stint as 1st Scout Ranger Battalion commander, which operated in Sulu and Basilan against the Abu Sayyaf terrorists, the unit was named Best Scout Ranger Battalion in 2000 and 2001.

It was also chosen as the Philippine Army Best Battalion for Combat Operations in 2002.

He is also a recipient of the Military Merit Medal, Military Commendation Medal, Gold Cross Medal, Distinguished Service Star, Leadership Award and Outstanding Achievement Medal. (PNA /By Priam Nepomuceno} Posted by: Becky D. de Asis/The Redline News Philuppines)