MANILA, Philippines – Newly-installed Armed Forces chief of staff Lt. Gen. Ricardo David Jr. vowed an end to insurgency in “two to three years” time through efficient use of its resources and effective strategy.
In a press conference Friday after he officially took oath, David also vowed to uphold human rights and transparency in military operations.
“Our policy will be towards the judicious and prudent need of our resources and transparency in our operations. For as long as it will not compromise our national security, the AFP also in its operations will continue to be protector of human rights and will continue to respect human law and international humanitarian law,” David told
reporters.
David said that his strategy to end insurgency in the country was to increase the number of troops and to change focus on some areas where insurgency was prevalent.
“Our mission is clear: as an instrument of national policy we will be highly capable of professional military organization competent to address national security. Our priority is the decimation of insurgency in the country, which continues to derail our efforts to attain lasting peace and development,” he added.
David, however, said they have yet to determine how many troops will be added to the military force.
David, a member of Philippine Military Academy “Masikap” Class of 1977, was the 41st chief of staff of the Armed Forces. He replaced acting chief of staff Lt. Gen. Nestor Ochoa. Prior to his assumption as chief of staff, David served as chief of the AFP’s Northern Luzon Command.
Source: Inquirer
