Army chief eyes world-class force

ARMY chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido told key officials of the 110,000-strong Philippine Army to adopt “innovative steps” so the Army can turn into a world-class force.

Galido’s instruction was part of the command guidance he issued during a command conference he presided over at the Army headquarters at Fort Bonifacio on Saturday.

“As soldiers, as family men and women, as public servants, and as honorable Filipinos, we must take innovative steps together to evolve into a world-class Army,” said Galido without elaborating.

In a statement yesterday, Army spokesman Lt. Col. Louie Dema-ala said Galido “encouraged the command to step out of the old and embrace new challenges.”

The Philippine Army is at the forefront in the fight against several internal security threat groups, including the New People’s Army which has been waging an armed struggle for over 50 years.

When Galido assumed the top Army post in August last year, he said the Army will be recalibrated as the military is shifting focus to territorial defense “so we can be responsive (and) relevant amid the volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous security environment.”

Dema-ala said Galido issued his “comprehensive command guidance” to the Army’s top brass and senior officials during the command conference, “emphasizing earnest innovations and adept military operations.”

“The first command conference for the year reviewed and evaluated the role of the Philippine Army as a reliable, responsive, and relevant force provider to the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” said Dema-ala.

It also highlighted “key accomplishments” of Army units and “disseminated updates, plans and programs” of the Army.

“The CGPA (Commanding General, Philippine Army) conveyed his command guidance – giving marching orders to the 110,000 members of the Philippine Army to amplify an effective and disciplined organization ready to face the challenges of becoming a multi-mission ready, cross-domain capable and world-class Army,” added Dema-ala.

Dema-ala said Galido reiterated his thrusts as Army chief, including the need for the Army to strive to become “reliable, responsive and relevant” in responding to the needs of nation.

Today, Armed Forces