New NCR military chief named

MANILA, Philippines — The Armed Forces of the Philippines has designated Brig. Gen. Marceliano Teofilo as commander of the AFP’s Joint Task Force – National Capital Region (JTF-NCR).

Teofilo assumed the post during a change of command ceremony at Camp Aguinaldo on Tuesday.

He replaced Brig. Gen. Alex Luna.

The AFP said the JTF-NCR is tasked to fight terrorism and insurgency. It also serves as a support unit to the Philippine National Police (PNP) in securing peace and order in Metro Manila.

AFP chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay said Teofilo would further intensify intelligence and counter-intelligence operations of the command.

Teofilo previously headed various units of the ISAFP (Intelligence Service of the AFP).

During Luna’s stint, the JTF-NCR stepped up as one of the implementers of strict health protocols against COVID-19.

It also assisted the PNP in ensuring the safety of foreign delegates during the Southeast Asian Games in 2019.