AFP to launch good governance watchdog

MANILA, Philippines - The military will launch Thursday a good governance watchdog that will oversee efforts to professionalize its ranks and improve its capabilities.

The Multi-Sector Governance Council (MSGC) will consist of former and current government officials and experts from different fields.

“The establishment of the MSGC highlights the AFP’s (Armed Forces of the Philippines) thrust in pursuing genuine reforms in the military particularly in promoting good governance while actively involving and engaging other government agencies and the civil sector,” Armed Forces public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said.

The military has been dragged in various controversies that tainted its credibility and affected its public image.

These controversies include the alleged massive corruption that involved retired military officers and the supposed human rights abuses against groups that are critical of the government.

Security officials have vowed to promote transparency in their procurement activities and to ensure that all soldiers are aware and supportive of the rules of engagement.

The members of the good governance body are Jesus Estanislao, chairman of Institute for Solidarity in Asia and former finance secretary; former Ambassador Lauro Baja; Jennifer Oreta, Assistant Secretary for Policy of the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process; Alfredo Pascual, president of the University of the Philippines; Cesar Bautista, co-chair of the National Competitiveness Council; and Fr. Jose Cruz, dean of the Ateneo School of Social Sciences.

Also in the council are former defense secretary Avelino Cruz; Bai Rohaniza Sumndad-Usman, founder of the Teach Peace-Build Peace; Solita Monsod, former socioeconomic planning secretary and professor at the University of the Philippines; Western Samar Rep. Mel Sarmiento, Jose Ramon Albert, president of the Philippine Statistical Associationl and Gina Lopez, managing director of the ABS-CBN Foundation.

Zagala said the creation of the MSGC is in line with the AFP Transformation Roadmap, a 15-year strategy that seeks to professionalize and develop the capabilities of soldiers.

The road map’s mission is “to protect the people and secure the sovereignty of the state and the integrity of the national territory." The 15-year plan also aims to instill the core values of honor, service and patriotism among the troops. – Alexis Romero with Cherish Maglaque