Army in good hands with Alberto as new chief: spox

MANILA -- The Philippine Army (PA) is in good hands with the appointment of Major Gen. Macairog Sabeniano Alberto as its 60th commanding general, its spokesperson said Friday.

"Major Gen. 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," Army spokesperson Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva said in a message to reporters.

Under Alberto's command, Villanueva said the 98,000-strong PA will further soar in accomplishing its mandate and attaining its vision of becoming world-class.

He said the incoming PA chief is known for being a "silent worker" yet a "passionate performer."

"He always puts 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 Army spokesperson added.

Alberto, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class of 1986, is set to replace Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista, a member of PMA Class of 1985, who will be retiring on 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 the incoming Army chief is a graduate of various courses, both in the country 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 holds a master’s (degree) 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 to his designation as 1001st Infantry Brigade head, a unit of the 10th Infantry Division in Mindanao before his appointment as chief of the Intelligence Service of the AFP.

"He is also a recipient of various awards and decors, to name a few, the 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. (PNA/By Priam Nepomuceno)