President Duterte on Wednesday night approved the appointment of Lt. Gen. Benjamin R. Madrigal, commander of the Eastern Mindanao, as the incoming Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff, Vice Gen. Carlito G. Galvez Jr., upon the endorsement of Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana of the Department of National Defense (DND), the AFP Board of Generals and Galvez.
The rigorous selection of the chief of staff is pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act 8186, as amended by RA 9188.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy “Sandiwa” Class of 1985, Madrigal was not only the most senior of the AFP BOG recommendees, but was also considered as among the most competent in terms of distinct professionalism, leadership and character.
In a news statement, the One Defense Team congratulated Madrigal and assured him of the department’s full support as he takes the helm of the AFP leadership from his predecessor, Gen. Galvez. Madrigal is expected to assume his new post on December 12.
In the same statement, the DND thanked Galvez for his commendable leadership and outstanding military service that inspired professionalism, patriotism and good governance in the AFP, allowing it to reach many milestones in our efforts to achieve just and lasting peace, and promotion of human rights and respect for the rule of law.