New AFP chief: Military to remain non-partisan, defender of human rights

Army Lt. Gen. Noel Clement, the new AFP chief, marches by a formation of cadets during his arrival at Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday, September 24, 2019 for the turnover rites with outgoing AFP chief General Benjamin Madrigal. Anna Felicia Bajo

Newly-appointed Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Lieutenant General Noel Clement on Tuesday said the military under his term would be “a staunch defender and advocate of human rights.”

He promised this during the change of command ceremonies at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, which was skipped by President Rodrigo Duterte.

“Under my watch, the AFP remains professional, non-partisan, a staunch defender and advocate of human rights," Clement said in his speech.

"My leadership aims to highlight values and advocates for the collective good of most people and our uniformed personnel," Clement added.

The 52nd AFP chief further said the enemies of peace would be dealt accordingly.

"I therefore call on the leftover of the lost cause... peace is not elusive. We have worked with your comrades..." he said.

Clement, who served as the 21st commander of the Central Command, has promised to focus on addressing communist insurgency problems in the Philippines. This was also one of the marching orders given to him by the Chief Executive.

Prior to his leadership at the Philippine Army's Central Command, he was the commander of the 10th Infantry "Agila" Division.

Similar to his predecessor, Clement is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Sandiwa Class of 1985. He will have a brief term in leading the AFP as he is set to retire in January 2020. —JST, GMA News