AFP chief to soldiers: Be nation’s pride

DAVAO CITY, Philippines - Outgoing Armed Forces chief Gen. Emmanuel Bautista on Thursday urged government forces to become a “world-class Army.”

Bautista is set to retire next month.

“We should be a world-class Army that would be a source of pride of our nation,” Bautista told the officers and men of the Armed Forces Eastern Mindanao Command headquarters at Camp Panacan here.

He reminded the soldiers to be conscious of the Army Transformation Road Map as guide in the conduct of their duties as defenders of the country and the people.

Bautista also called on the soldiers to work with the people in discharging their duties to bring about peace in the south.

“You have to continue to work hand in hand among civilian stakeholders for the achievement of lasting peace in Mindanao,” he said.

Bautista noted the important role of the Philippine National Police in jointly pursuing peace and order in the country.