AFP revamp to affect 10 officers

MANILA, Philippines – Another round of revamp of officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is expected to affect 10 officials, a military source confirmed yesterday.

The source said the revamp would include Air Force Vice Commander Maj. Gen. Eduardo Oban, who is reportedly being eyed as the next deputy chief of staff. 

Oban may replace acting AFP deputy chief Rear Admiral Mario Catacutan, who would be assigned as deputy chief for logistics (J4).

Oban, a member of Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class 1979, was one of the officers who negotiated with the rebel soldiers belonging to the Magdalo group.

“He (Oban) is a professional officer. He is competent, professional and has charisma,” a source said when asked to describe Oban.

The source said 8th Infantry Division commander Gen. Arthur Tabaquero would replace Rear Admiral Feliciano Angue as chief of the National Capital Region Command. The source said Angue’s next assignment is still being determined.

PMA cadet commandant Brig. Gen. Alfredo Nonato Peralta would be appointed deputy chief for civil military operations to replace Maj. Gen. Victor Felix, who would head an Army Infantry division.

Maj. Gen. Mario Chan, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, may be appointed commander of the 8th Infantry Division, a post being held by Tabaquero.

The source clarified that these were just recommendations to the Board of Generals and are not yet final.

“Around 10 officers may be moved to new posts,” the source said.

The AFP experienced leadership changes due to the decision of some military officers to retire early and due to some movements initiated by the new leadership.

The first two rounds of reassignments took effect last month. The military leadership said seniority, service reputation and career record were considered in the giving of assignments.