MANILA – The Philippine Army (PA) on Friday said the experience, character and commitment to organizational excellence of its incoming commander, Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, will greatly help the organization fulfill its mandate.
"His experience, character, and commitment to organizational excellence are his most valuable qualities as he leads the Army in hurdling the various challenges the country is now facing," said Army spokesperson, Col. Ramon Zagala, in a statement.
He added that the entire PA welcomes the appointment of Sobejana as PA commander.
He noted that throughout his military service, Sobejana exemplified sound leadership as he commanded various Army units that played key roles in bringing and upholding peace and security particularly in the southern part of the country.
"The 62nd CGPA (Commanding General Philippine Army) is a recipient of the Medal of Valor Award, the highest military honor bestowed for the conspicuous act of bravery and sacrifice above and beyond the call of duty, when he battled against Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Basilan Province in 1995," Zagala said.
Sobejana will succeed Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay, who was named as the next Armed Forces of the Philippines chief-of-staff.
Gapay will replace Gen. Felimon T. Santos who will retire from the service on August 3.
Sobejana, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1987, commanded Joint Task Force Sulu, the Maguindanao-based 6th Infantry Division, and the Western Mindanao Command, to name a few. (PNA)
