On the eve of his assumption as the country's 15th president, Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III on Tuesday named Armed Forces Northern Luzon Command head Lt. Gen. Ricardo David as the incoming chief of staff of the Philippine military.
Aquino made the announcement shortly after naming members of his official family and other government executives at a press conference in Quezon City.
Leyte: the return to the Philippines (United States Army in World War II. The War in the Pacific)
David is a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy "Masikap" Class of 1977. His classmate, Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer, was reportedly also a contender for the top military post.
Last week, Gen. Delfin Bangit cut short his tour of duty, opting to retire early from the service after Aquino himself said he does not want the military general to be serve under him. Bangit was supposed to retire on July 31, 2011.
The War in the Pacific: Leyte: The Return to the Philippines
Lt. Gen. Nestor Ochoa, also a member of the David's class, took over the AFP in an acting capacity. Ochoa was a member of the security group of the late President Corazon "Cory" Aquino, Aquino's mother. Ochoa would be acting military chief until David formally assumes office.
The fall of the Philippines (United States Army in World War II : The war in the Pacific)
Aquino had repeatedly said Bangit must leave his post because his appointment was bypassed by the Commission on Appointments before Congress adjourned earlier this month.
Bangit and outgoing President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo are perceived to have close ties. Their relationship dates back to when President Arroyo was still vice president, with Bangit serving as commanding officer of her security detachment.
Triumph in the Philippines. The War in the Pacific. United States Army in World War II
Bangit is a member of the PMA "Makatarungan" Class of 1978, of which President Arroyo is an honorary member. — with Sophia Dedace/RSJ/KBK
