CentCom chief defends classmate from critics

CEBU, Philippines - The newly promoted commander of the Central Command has defended his mistah at the Philippine Military Academy against criticisms on the latter’s appointment as Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

In an interview with the local media, Lt. Gen. Ralph Villanueva who recently received his third star said AFP Chief of Staff Delfin Bangit is capable of leading the military without bias.

Villanueva also dismissed insinuations that Bangit can be used by politicians to advance their own interests during the elections.

Villanueva, Bangit, and Regional Police Director Lani-O Nerez were classmates at the PMA and graduated together in 1978. 

Meanwhile, Villanueva said he would like to believe that his promotion to lieutenant general was based on his accomplishments in Central Visayas, especially on his initiative to fight insurgency, and not because his affiliation with Bangit. 

Just two weeks ago, the central command declared the provinces of Bohol and Cebu as insurgency free, an accomplishment that reportedly pleased President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. — Gabriel C. Bonjoc/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)