The Commission on Appointments (CA) confirms the nominations and promotions of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) deputy chief of staff Vice Admiral Erick Kagaoan (standing) and 59 other senior officers. Screengrab from CA Youtube livestream
MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Appointments (CA) on Thursday confirmed the promotion and nominations of 60 senior Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), including deputy chief of staff Vice Admiral Erick Kagaoan.
Before the CA’s session, its Committee on National Defense, in a hearing, deliberated on and recommended the approval of the promotions and nominations of the senior military officials.
During the CA panel’s hearing, Kagaoan was asked about issues concerning the West Philippine Sea, among others.
Senator Risa Hontiveros lauded Kagaoan after he affirmed the principle that the Philippine military will always stand for the country’s national sovereignty with regard to maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
“He couched it in [a] language that was also very diplomatic. I appreciate that kind of expression of the policy of our Armed Forces, which I think is very healthily in line with our best policy as a country that seeks peace,” Hontiveros said.
“And we seek it through primarily diplomatic and political means kaya nga napakahalaga ng ating diplomatic victory sa (in) The Hague,” she added, referring to Manila’s arbitral victory against China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea.
Aside from Kagaoan, the CA also confirmed the nomination of AFP Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence Maj. Gen. Alex Luna and Presidential Security Group (PSG) chief Brig. Gen. Jesus Durante III.
Durante was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte as PSG commander last February.
The nominations of Brig. Gen. Rolando Nerona, Brig. Gen. Denie Mar Clemencia, Brig. Gen. Jesus Rico Atencio, Brig. Gen. Ferdinan Barandon and Brig. Gen. Gerardo Catindoy were also confirmed by the CA.
Meanwhile, 52 senior officers of the AFP also secured the CA’s approval.