MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino swore in new Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. and 20 other military officers in simple rites at Malacañang yesterday.
Catapang assumed his post last July, replacing Gen. Emmanuel Bautista.
He was joined by his family during the ceremony.
Aquino also administered the oath taking of newly promoted generals and flag officers of the AFP.
Sworn in were Lt. Gen. Felicito Virgilio Trinidad Jr., Maj. Gen. Donato San Juan, Maj. Gen. Victor Bayani, Maj. Gen. Salvador Melchor Mison Jr., Maj. Gen. Mayoralgo de la Cruz, Rear Admiral Reynaldo Yoma, Maj. Gen. Glorioso Miranda, Brig. Gen. Medardo Geslani and Brig. Gen. Arthur Ang.
Also promoted were Brig. Gen. Vicente Yordan, Commodore Allan Rosal, Brig. Gen. Arnold Mancita, Brig. Gen. Enrique Reyes, Brig. Gen. Armando Bañez, Brig. Gen. Edgar Gonzales, Brig. Gen. Irma Almoneda, Brig. Gen. Johnny Macanas, Brig. Gen. John Oliviamor Estabillo, Brig. Gen. Manolito Orense and Brig. Gen. Job Yucoco.
Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin attended the oath taking of the military officials.