Col. Romulo Manuel Jr. assumed as the new commander of the Army Artillery Regiment on February 17, 2020.
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Army’s main artillery arm installed a new commander on Monday, February 17.
Col. Romulo Manuel Jr. assumed as the new commander of the Army Artillery Regiment (AAR), a post vacated by Brig. Gen. Virgilio Bartolome, the Army said in a statement.
Manuel was previously the Army’s assistant chief for plans and programs before his new designation. Bartolome, meanwhile, was retiring from service after 36 years.
The AAR is responsible for providing firepower to the Philippine Army. It is said to be at the forefront of the Army’s modernization, with new units created last year in anticipation of new assets.
“In line with the direction set by my predecessor and other commanders before him, I shall ensure the continuity of the initiatives that they have put in place and pursue it with earnest commitment,” Manuel was quoted as saying.
Army chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay presided the turnover ceremony at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.