Vivar named new Centcom head as Bonafos gives up post

CEBU, Philippines -  The former commander of the 3rd Air Division in Zamboanga City has been named new commander of the Central Command starting today after Lieutenant General John Bonafos relinquished his post yesterday morning.

Major General Nicanor Vivar replaced Bonafos who is transferred to higher headquarters as vice chief of staff.

“I am proud to highlight the value that I have done in my term of service and it is that Centcom is transforming for the future that strives to undergo changes that will enable creative solutions to operational challenges of joint operations and the competitive of new threats,” said Bonafos in his speech.

The change of command was spearheaded by General Gregorio Catapang, AFP chief of staff.

Bonafos was able to deliver his functions as commander of Centcom during the two major calamities that hit Visayas, namely super typhoon Yolanda and the 7.2 earthquake.

Bonafos also assured that Vivar will continue to assist the people and the government in meeting the changing security environment.

For his part, Vivar expects a greater challenge and responsibility to lead alongside the men not only in the Philippine Air Force but also in the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

“It’s a big challenge but with guidance of national government and chief of staff,  I’m sure kaya natin to,” he said, adding that by 2016, Visayas area will already be cleared of NPA.  Vivar is a PMA graduate of Sandigan Class of 1982 and was a former commander of the PAF 3rd Division based in Edwin Andrews Air Base in Zamboanga City.

Vivar is a native of Hagonoy, Bulacan and underwent various career courses and trainings, both local and abroad, including Australia and USA. —/JMD (FREEMAN)