MANILA, Philippines—President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has appointed a younger brother of opposition Rep. Roilo Golez to head the Philippine Navy, the defense department announced yesterday.

Rear Admiral Ferdinand Golez, who is current chief of the Naval Education and Training Command, is the Navy’s new Flag Officer-in-Command, replacing Vice Admiral Rogelio Calunsag, who retires on Saturday.

Golez will serve as Navy chief for 21 months until May 16, 2010 when he reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56.

The President also signed the ad interim appointments of seven two-star generals, the DND said.

Golez belongs to the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1976. His classmates include Armed Forces Chief Gen. Alexander Yano; Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Victor Ibrado; and Philippine National Police Deputy Chief for Administration Deputy Director General Jesus Verzosa.

Meritocracy

He beat two other officers for the top Navy post—Rear Admirals Emilio Marayag and Geronimo Defensor. All three were recommended by the Board of Generals, the DND said.

In a talk with reporters, Golez evaded the question of about his being the younger brother of the Parañaque congressman, a fierce critic of the President.

“I’m sure the President…is always considering all of these. I’m sure she sees it as…we are just doing our job,” he said.

He said the AFP leadership is committed to “upholding meritocracy” in promotions and appointments.

“Our organization does not happen overnight. I’ve been an officer for the past 32 years, meaning that in 32 years you develop your reputation, your capability,” said Golez, who also thanked the President for appointing him.

“Admiral Golez is a very professional officer, principled, well-meaning, and one of the brilliant officers of the Philippine Navy. He has a good vision for the Navy…he is a well-rounded officer,” said Navy spokesperson Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo. He said the turnover rites will be scheduled later in the week.

The new major generals are: Carlos Holganza, Army Training and Doctrine Command; Ricardo David, chief of the 4th Infantry Division based in Cagayan de Oro City; Jerry Jalandoni, deputy chief of staff for logistics, or J4; Roland Detabali, commander of the 2nd Infantry Division based in Tanay, Rizal; Nestor Ochoa, chief of the 3rd Infantry Division based in Jamindan, Capiz; Johnny Corcha, chief of the Army Support Command; and Romeo Lustestica, deputy chief of staff for operations, or J3.