Army to continue battle for hearts and minds

MANILA, Philippines — Believing that the fight against insurgency cannot be won by military offensives alone, two newly installed officials of the Philippine Army have vowed to continue working toward winning the hearts of the people through various activities and programs.

Col. Patricio Ruben Amata was named assistant chief of staff of the Civil Military Operations (CMO) unit, while Col. Facundo Palafox IV took the helm of the CMO Regiment on Friday.

Army spokesman Lt. Col. Luie Villanueva said Amata would supervise the implementation of the CMO thrust and programs of the Philippine Army. Villanueva said Amata succeeded Palafox, who has been instrumental in the successful implementation of CMO activities of the Army for two years.

Palafox replaced Col. Romeo Brawner Jr. who was recently named commander of the 103rd Infantry Brigade in Marawi.

Army Vice Commander Maj. Gen. Robert Arevalo expressed confidence that the Philippine Army would be in “good shape as a force provider as it implemented changes in its key staff and command positions.”

Though firm on its stand not to declare a ceasefire with the New People’s Army (NPA) during the holiday season, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Lt. Gen. Benjamin Madrigal Jr. wished for peace and joy to fill the hearts of every Filipino on Christmas.