MANILA – Incoming Philippine Army (PA) commander, Major Gen. Macairog Sabeniano Alberto, is very qualified to handle the top post in the 98,000-strong PA, an Army official said.
“Dumaan naman (siya) sa pagsusuri (He went through a thorough screening), and we believe he is qualified and he has equal competence of (the outgoing) CGPA (Commanding General Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Rolando Joselito Bautista),” PA spokesperson, Lt. Col. Louie Villanueva, said in an interview Sunday.
Villanueva said 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.
He added that the incoming PA chief is known for his dedication, a “silent worker” yet a “passionate performer”.
“He always put 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 PA spokesperson added.
Alberto, a member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1986, is slated to replace Bautista, a member of PMA Class 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 local 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 hold masters 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 his designation as 1001st Infantry Brigade head, a unit of the 10th Infantry Division in Mindanao before appointment as head of the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
“He is also a recipient of various awards and decors, to name a few, 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. (Priam Nepomuceno/PNA)
