Former solon Gilbert Teodoro inducted as new defense chief

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo administered the oath of office Tuesday to incoming Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro who said he would do his best at his new post.

“I am honored and humbled by the trust of the President and I promise to execute my duties to the best of my abilities,” Teodoro said after the induction rites held in Malacanang.

Teodoro, a former Tarlac congressman, said among the general instructions the President gave him was to continue with the planned features and facilities upgrade of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and to pursue the investigation of the “Basilan incident.”

The Basilan incident refers to the July 10 encounter between Philippine Marines and Muslim extremists where 14 Marines were killed, 10 of whom were beheaded.

The President also asked Teodoro to focus on the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) so that disasters such as the extended dry spell being experienced in the country can be deterred.

“Even if the rains are coming, we wish to deter future incidents from happening again and we have to put in place our capabilities to protect the civilian population to service their needs,” Teodoro said.

He thanked the President, her official family and the AFP for warmly welcoming him into their ranks. He also thanked his immediate family, especially his wife, Tarlac Rep. Nikki Prieto Teodoro, “for all their sacrifices and support.”

Prior to his appointment, the 43-year-old Teodoro was a three-term representative of Tarlac province.

Teodoro took over the Defense portfolio held in acting capacity by National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales after President Arroyo reappointed Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. as Public Works and Highways chief last June 30.