Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete, the newly appointed commanding general of the Philippine Army, announced that his leadership will be defined by a central mission: prioritizing human capital development to empower every soldier for the evolving demands of modern warfare.
In his speech during the turnover of command on Thursday, July 31, Nafarrete emphasized that the support system for soldiers must be dynamic and resilient, recognizing personnel as the Army’s most vital asset.
“We are entering an era where wars are not only fought with bullets, but also with bytes. Where borders are tested not just by battalions, but by bandwidths. Where battles can be won or lost through morale, awareness and unity,” he said.
“Under my command, our focus will be centered on human capital development — a mission within our mission — to invest not just in what we fight with, but in who fights,” he added.
His leadership will revolve around five key pillars: personnel, morale, health, education, and finances. These areas, Nafarrete explained, are foundational for preparing soldiers to meet the challenges of modern battlefields.
“Each and every soldier, remember this, you are not just part of the force, you are the force. You are not just defending the nation, you are the nation,” Nafarrete declared.
“Our strength is our personnel, and as your commander, I pledge to be a commander that puts you, your growth, your welfare, your future at the center of everything we do,” he vowed.
A member of Philippine Military Academy Class of 1990, Nafarrete succeeded Lt. Gen. Roy M. Galido, who retired after reaching the mandatory age of 56.
President Marcos, who led the change of command of the Philippine Army at the Fort Andres Bonifacio in Taguig City, expressed confidence that Nafarrete will maintain the Army’s integrity and professionalism.
“You will be assuming your role at a time when geopolitical tensions and global uncertainty are high. This will demand your vigilance and leadership to deliver clear direction and to show a firm commitment,” Marcos told Nafarrete. (Aaron Recuenco, with a report from Betheena Unite)
