New NOLCOM chief to sustain strong internal security efforts
Newly installed Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command Commander Lieutenant General Ernesto Torres Jr. delivers a message during the Donning of Ranks and Change of Command Ceremony. (NOLCOM CIO)
TARLAC CITY – The new commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) vowed to aggressively support programs to end internal dissension through a progressive and sustainable campaign that would address its root causes.
During the Donning of Ranks and Change of Command Ceremony, NOLCOM Commander Lieutenant General Ernesto Torres Jr. underscored that the unified command will employ full military capability to defeat the security threats in Northern and Central Luzon.
The intensified efforts on internal security, he said, can be accomplished through the whole-of-nation approach spearheaded by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
Torres also called for the support of local government units (LGUs) and other stakeholders in security and development initiatives as they are crucial in attaining peace, stability and progress in the country.
“Through these efforts, we can collectively put pressure on what remains of the communist terrorist groups (CTGs) and other armed groups, to shun the use of arms and violence, and replace such a culture of violence with a culture of security, peace and development,” he noted.
Also, Torres eyes to beef-up maritime operations to protect the country’s northern borders.
Committing to lead with competence, empathy and integrity, Torres urged NOLCOM personnel to advocate and work for peace, facilitate the resolution of primary issues exploited by CTGs, and gain active support of the public in condemning power struggle.
Likewise, strengthen collaboration with LGUs and other stakeholders, maximize media platforms in information dissemination, and contribute to the peaceful resolution of challenges in the West Philippine Sea.
“Under my watch, Team NOLCOM will march in cadence with the Filipino people to attain our national vision: Para sa isang matatag, maginhawa at panatag na pamumuhay para sa bawat Pilipino,” Torres noted.
