Bautista vows to back peace process even if ‘difficult to attain’

MANILA, Philippines — Newly appointed Army chief Emmanuel Bautista vowed to uphold the peace process while seeking justice against lawless elements.

In his speech during the Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Bonifacio. Bautista admitted that peace was difficult to attain but said that “The Philippine Army remains fully supportive of the Peace Process.”

“We will seek justice against those who have committed atrocities… We will apply legitimate force without sacrificing the peace process,” Bautista added.

Bautista replaced retired Lieutenant General Arturo Ortiz as commander of the 80,000 strong Army.

Present during the ceremony were President and Commander-in-chief Benigno Aquino III, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Philippine National Police Director General Nicanor Bartolome and Philippine Coast Guard chief Rear Admiral Ramon Liwag.

Also present were former military chiefs retired Generals Alexander Yano, Ricardo David, Victor Ibrado and Hermogenes Esperon Jr.