New PSG chief: We’ll rise to challenge of protecting Duterte

The new chief of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) on Saturday vowed to rise to the challenge of protecting President Rodrigo Duterte.

“The PSG, under my leadership, shall rise up to the challenge of securing the President according to established and tested security protocols with emphasis on highly-professional, proactive, persevering and dedicated discharge of duty by all members of the PSG,” said Colonel Rolando Joselito Bautista, the new chief of the Presidential Security Group.

Bautista formally took over the position from Rear Admiral Raul Ubando during the change of command ceremony at the PSG grandstand in Malacañang.

READ: New presidential security chief takes over

Bautista promised “to fulfill its mandate to secure” Duterte, whom he described as “a humble man of origin who detest any form of security” even during his stint as city mayor in Davao City.

In an earlier interview, Bautista has said that Duterte was not a security nightmare, adding that they would implement adjustments to suit the requests of Duterte, who has decided to split his work week between Davao City and Manila.

He said that they were willing to implement changes in their protocols for Duterte so long as this would not compromise his security.

He said he had always looked forward to new assignments in his military career.

He also asked for the support of the members of the PSG, saying “it is our responsibility to secure the seat of government.

“Being part of the PSG is an honor. Let us ask the Lord to keep the President safe under our watch,” he added.

Prior to being picked as the incoming PSG commander, Bautista was the commander of the Joint Task Group in Basilan. He graduated at the Philippine Military Academy “Sandiwa” Class of 1985.

Bautista also previously served as a United Nations Military Observer in East Timor. Before he became the commander of the 104th Brigade in Basilan, he was the commander of the 73rd Infantry Battalion in Davao from 2005 to 2007. He also served in the Davao-based Army’s 10th Infantry Division from 2007 to 2010.