New AFP anti-coup unit chief named

MANILA, Philippines - After several days of uncertainty, Maj. Gen. Reynaldo Mapagu assumed command yesterday of the National Capital Region Command (NCRCom), the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) anti-coup force based in Metro Manila.

Mapagu’s official designation as the new NCRCom commander was put on hold by the AFP until the last minute.

Mapagu, a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1978, replaced PMA Class of 1976’s Maj. Gen. Jogy Leo Fojas, who just retired.

PMA Class of 1978 is the same batch that adopted President Arroyo as an honorary member. Other members of the class include Army chief Lt. Gen. Delfin Bangit.

Mapagu, a former commander of the Army Scout Rangers, led the 10th Infantry Division in Davao City before he was named NCRCom chief. The AFP has yet to officially name Mapagu’s replacement, but insiders said Mapagu’s mistah, AFP Deputy Chief for Operations (J3) Maj. Gen. Carlos Holganza, will soon be appointed to Mapagu’s former post.    – Jaime Laude