Clement gets CA nod as AFP chief

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Appointments (CA) yesterday approved the appointment of Armed Forces chief Gen. Noel Clement.

President Duterte appointed Clement as the country’s military chief last September. Clement, the sixth Armed Forces chief under Duterte, is set to retire in January 2020. He was commander of the Cebu-based Central Command prior to his appointment.

Sen. Grace Poe endorsed his confirmation, describing Clement as “a steady achiever who excelled at all levels of his military career; a true officer who is well liked by his seniors, peers and juniors; and a fair leader who took care of his men the same way they took care of their missions.”

“Very few chiefs of staff are as well loved and respected as the nominee. His genuine concern and support for the welfare and career growth of his men shows in the loyalty pledged to him,” Poe said.

“The nominee’s quiet and pleasant demeanor speaks volumes. His appointment gives us a seasoned officer with an impressive track record in both field and management positions,” she said.

During his confirmation hearings before the CA committee on national defense and security, Clement said he was in favor of the partial lifting of martial law in Mindanao.

The CA also confirmed the promotion of Vice Adm. Allan Ferdinand Cusi, the superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

Cusi told the committee he has been pushing reforms at the PMA to include requesting for more guidance counselors.

He said the recent drowning of another cadet in the PMA pool was still under investigation but foul play has been ruled out.