BONG GO COMMENDS AFP OFFICERS; REAFFIRMS FULL SUPPORT FOR THE MILITARY

On Wednesday, September 4, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go expressed his unwavering support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) during the confirmation of 32 high-ranking officers in the Commission on Appointments (CA).

In his secondment speech as Vice Chairperson of the Committee on National Defense of both the Senate and the CA, Go highlighted the bravery and sacrifices of the men and women in uniform, praising their invaluable role in ensuring the nation’s safety and security.

“Mula po noon hanggang ngayon, buo po ang aking suporta sa ating Sandatahang Lakas ng Pilipinas. Maraming salamat po sa inyong patuloy na pagseserbisyo sa ating mga kababayan, at salamat po sa inyong serbisyo sa bayan. Congratulations to all of you,” Go said.

Go lauded the military officers’ contributions during pivotal moments in the country’s history, including their service during the COVID-19 pandemic and their involvement in critical military operations such as securing the nation’s territory and sovereignty as well as in national security threats including the past Marawi siege and battles with insurgencies.

Building on this recognition of their bravery, Go emphasized the importance of prioritizing the country’s welfare, reiterating the long-standing support for the military that began during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration.

“Unahin lang po natin ang interes ng bayan, interes ng Pilipino. Mula noon sa panahon ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte at hanggang ngayon, dito po kami, full support po kami sa ating uniformed personnel,” Go urged, reminding everyone of the importance of prioritizing the country’s welfare above all else.

As the senator concluded his address, he emphasized the continued importance of the AFP in safeguarding the nation’s interests, commending all the officers who were promoted.

“Sa lahat po ng mga na-promote sa araw na ito, maraming salamat po sa inyong sakripisyo, serbisyo sa bayan. Mula noon, sa panahon ng pandemya nandidyan kayo. Giyera sa Marawi, sa Jolo, at iba pa. Salamat sa inyong serbisyo,” he said.

“Ang inyong tapang at malasakit ay tunay na kahanga-hanga at nagbibigay pag-asa po sa bawat Pilipino. Muli, maraming-maraming salamat at congratulations po sa inyong lahat,” concluded Go.

Go has consistently championed the welfare and modernization of the AFP. Notably, during the Duterte administration, Go played a crucial role in increasing the salaries of military and other uniformed personnel, which he described as a way to honor their dedication to the country.

The senator has also actively opposed proposals that would adversely affect the pensions entitled to active and retired military personnel. He also opposes proposals that would require them to contribute to their pension funds.

He also filed Senate Bill No. 422, which aims to provide free legal aid to AFP and police personnel facing legal challenges related to their official duties, further exemplifying his efforts to support the military.

Go’s advocacy extends beyond the military to include the modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard through his filed SBN 2112, which seeks to modernize its assets and capabilities.

Among the notable officers confirmed by the CA were Lieutenant General Luis Rex Bergante, Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command in Davao; Lieutenant General Fernando Reyeg, Commander of the Visayas Command; and Major General Dennis Estrella, Commander of the Air Logistics Command in Clark Air Base.

Also confirmed were Major General Jimmy Larida, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations; Vice Admiral Alfonso Torres Jr., Commander of the Western Command; Vice Admiral Caesar Valencia, Philippine Military Academy; Major General Pedro Balisi Jr., Commander of the Armor Division; and Brigadier General Romulus Canieso, Deputy Commander of the Installation Management Command.

“These individuals embody the highest standards of excellence and commitment in their respective fields, and I have complete faith in their ability to succeed in any future endeavors they pursue.”

“Your bravery, heroism, and sacrifice to our beloved country is truly deserving of this commendation. Let us always remember that the safety and security of our nation rests upon the shoulders of these brave individuals,” he stated.