AFP chief cites Viscom gains in security drive, territorial defense

CEBU CITY – Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. cited the gains of the Visayas Command (Viscom) in its internal security operations (ISO) under the leadership of Lt. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, who bowed out of military service in a ceremony here on Thursday.

Viscom’s achievements with Arevalo at the helm profoundly impacted the AFP as an organization, Brawner said, referring to government-initiated operations against the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).

“Under his guidance Viscom which is currently the priority command of the AFP in terms of ISO, has set an exemplary standard, standing tall in the frontlines of tactical, air, and naval operations, safeguarding our sovereign rights,” Brawner said in his message during the change of command and retirement ceremonies at the Bondad Hall of Viscom in Camp Lapu-Lapu here.

Viscom and the two Army Divisions, the 8th Infantry Division based in Catbalogan, Samar and the 3rd Infantry Division based in Jamindan, Capiz, and the Army brigades as well as the Air and Naval components have met the targets set by the AFP, he said.

Arevalo led clearing of all NPA-infested communities in the entire Visayas region, with 13 top NPA leaders neutralized, including two secretaries of the NPA’s regional party committees in Eastern Visayas.  

“So with that, I am living the service with pride, dignity, and honor serving our country for 34 years,” Arevalo said in his retirement speech, thanking the command staff of Viscom for helping him.

Viscom’s deputy commander, Navy Commodore Oscar Canlas Jr., will take over Viscom.

After receiving awards and accolades as well as reading the retirement orders, Arevalo took the oath of incorporation to the reserve force.

Arevalo is a member of the Philippine Military Academy class of 1990. (PNA)