Senga: AFP winning war vs insurgents

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — President Arroyo’s order to lick the communist rebellion in two years is now gaining ground, the military said yesterday.

Outgoing Armed Forces chief Gen. Generoso Senga said despite recent rebel atrocities, the military has gained the upper hand against the New People’s Army.

"We are optimistic we can carry the campaign," he told reporters at Armed Forces Southern Command headquarters in Zamboanga City.

Senga was in Cagayan de Oro City on a traditional farewell visit to troops deployed in forward positions.

"Eleven days (ten days today), we will reach the mandatory retirement age of 56, and I am leaving the service confident that you can carry out your mandate to be the symbol of peace, protector of the state and the citizenry," he told the troops.

Senga said while all the contenders are highly qualified officers, his successor should be able and capable in accomplishing the AFP’s mandate and missions.

"Huwag masyadong magpa-distract sa hindi naman dapat pag-tuunan ng pansin (Do not be distracted by things that they should not focus on)," he said.

Senga said that the Board of Generals (BOG) has yet to submit the names of his possible successors.

"Wala pang recommendation (There is still no recommendation)," he said.

Senga is said he is so busy attending to his duties that he had forgotten to plan for his retirement like other retiring military officers do.