The Commission on Appointments (CA) on Wednesday (Dec. 4) confirmed the promotions of 15 senior military officers as the panel underscored the professional development within the leadership of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
The newly promoted military officers were led by Lt. Gen. Ferdinand Barandon of the Army, AFP deputy chief for intelligence (J2). The other promotees were Maj. Gen. Adonis Ariel Orio also of the Army; Rear Adm. Alan Javier; and Brig. Gen. Joseph Archog, Brig. Gen. Huert Acierto, Brig. Gen. Rosendo Abad Jr., Brig. Gen. Michael Logico, Brig. Gen. Jose Ambrosio Rustia, and Brig. Gen. Ronald Jess Alcudia, all of the Army; Gen. Bob Apostol of the Navy (Marine); and Brig. Gen. Raul Tangco (reserve).
The CA likewise confirmed the promotion to the next higher ranks of Rear Adm. Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, Brig. Gen Joseph Norwin Pasamonte of the Army, Commodores Florante Gagua and Juario Marayag.
During the CA hearing, Barandon gave assurance that there is no destabilization plot within the ranks amid the impeachment initiatives against Vice President Sara Duterte.
“There is nothing to worry about (as far as the AFP is concerned), Barandon said.
“I would like to emphasize, as mentioned by our Chief of Staff—we’ll be mission-focused and we will abide by duly constituted authority. As to the retired officers, I think I’m not in the position to talk about what they are thinking or what they would want to do,” Barandon said.
“We are confident and again I would like to re-echo the statement of the Chief of Staff as well as senior commanders of the AFP (who) are constantly talking to members of the AFP on matters pertaining to our mission and also our duty to defend the Constitution as well as the people,” he added.
Barandon emphasized that military officers “are professionals and mission-oriented who follow the chain of command.”
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “15 senior officers from AFP get CA nod”
