New Philippine Army Commander Assumes Leadership
ZAMBOANGA CITY — Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete officially took command of the Philippine Army on Thursday, succeeding Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, who retired after two years of dedicated service. Nafarrete’s appointment as the new Philippine Army Commander marks a significant milestone for the military and national security.
A graduate of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1990, Nafarrete most recently served as the Commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom). His experience and leadership in this key region underscore his readiness to lead the Army.
Community Development and Civil-Military Unity Highlight Early Leadership
One of the first to congratulate Nafarrete was Lt. Col. Michael “Mikee” Romero of the Philippine Air Force Reserve Command. Romero praised the new Philippine Army Commander for his bravery and compassion, calling his appointment a major win for national security and civil-military cooperation.
“Lt. Gen. Nafarrete’s service in Western Mindanao has been marked by both bravery and compassion—qualities that will serve the Army and the nation well,” Romero said.
Among Nafarrete’s last official acts as WestMinCom chief was leading the groundbreaking ceremony for a covered basketball court and community assembly area in Barangay Mariki, a coastal barangay in Zamboanga City vulnerable to conflicts and natural risks.
Symbol of Unity and Hope in Barangay Mariki
This project, part of WestMinCom’s 19th anniversary celebration, reflects the command’s ongoing commitment to peace-building and local development. Nafarrete described the facility as a “symbol of unity, hope, and youth development,” emphasizing its importance to the community.
The site once bore witness to the challenges faced during the Marawi conflict, making the project a meaningful step toward healing and progress.
Support from Reservist Leader Mikee Romero
Nafarrete credited former congressman and reservist leader Romero for his pivotal role in making the project a reality. Romero, who is also the founding chairman of the Association of Reservists and Reservist Administrators of the Philippines Inc., has championed youth-centered and community-based initiatives nationwide.
“This court will be more than just a sports venue,” Romero said. “It will be a safe haven for our youth, a platform for community dialogue, and a symbol of solidarity and progress. We also plan to bring in more partners from Luzon to help deliver essential services and development support to Barangay Mariki.”
Local Leaders Welcome New Development
Zamboanga City Mayor Khymer Olaso expressed his gratitude to Romero and his team during a courtesy call. The mayor highlighted the significance of the donation to the community.
“The city government is grateful for this meaningful gift to our community,” Mayor Olaso noted on social media. “It adds a vital dimension to our vision of a safer, stronger Zamboanga.”
The groundbreaking and visit included key reserve force members and local officials, reinforcing the collaborative effort behind this initiative.
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