PH Navy has new chief

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Navy has a new chief to succeed Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano who has reached the mandatory retirement age of 56. The change-of-command ceremony is scheduled on Wednesday, April 30.

“The AFP welcomes the appointment of Rear Admiral Jesus C Millan as the Philippine Navy’s Flag Officer in Command,” said military spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Ramon Zagala.

Millan assumes the post as the military shifts its focus from internal security to external defense. The Philippines is looking at maritime security cooperation, among others, with the US following the signing of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA).

Watch Rappler’s Q&A with outgoing Navy chief Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano.

Before his appointment, Millan was the commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao and was the former chief of naval staff and commander of the Naval Reserve Command.

He is a recipient of various military awards including the Distinguished Navy Cross, Distinguished Service Star, and Bronze Cross Medals. 

He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1982. 

All the 3 major services of the Philippine military have new chiefs. Army chief Lieutenant General Hernando Iriberri assumed the post in February while Air Forces chief Major General Jeffrey Delgado assumed the post last week. – Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler.com