Palace officially names Empedrad as new PH Navy chief

The change of command in the Philippine Navy surprised many, even those in the Armed Forces themselves. This contributed photo shows AFP chief of staff Gen. Rey Leonardo Guerrero handing over the Navy saber to Rear Adm. Robert Empedrad, who took over Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado who was unceremoniously relieved as Navy Flag Officer In Command (FOIC). Guerrero is seen standing to Empedrad’s left.

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Rear Admiral Robert Empedrad as the new flag officer in command of the Philippine Navy.

Duterte, in a letter addressed to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, said Empedrad’s appointment was approved last December 19, 2017.

The letter of Duterte to Lorenzana was dated January 16, 2018, but was released only to the media on Thursday.

Empedrad replaced Vice Adm. Ronald Joseph Mercado who was earlier sacked amid controversy involving a weapons system procurement plan of the Navy. /jpv

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