The Commission on Appointments (CA) on Thursday confirmed the promotion of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Antonio G. Nafarette to the rank of four-star general, alongside the confirmation and promotion of 37 other senior and flag officers. Promoted reservists included former lawmaker Micheal “Mikee” Romero to brigadier general and former representative Divina Grace Uy to colonel.
During the hearing, Senator Panfilo Lacson inquired if the military was actively developing drones to counter external aggression, noting, “at least may laban man lang tayo maski wala tayong pera.” He urged the AFP to provide budget requirements, adding, “Nandito rin members ng House para masuportahan natin yung program niyo sa drone development.”
Nafarette clarified that drone development is currently in the research and testing phase at general headquarters. “First of all, we go to other partnerships looking at how this is being utilized and it is still in the level of (research and development)…Wala pa yung actual o practical…But this is being tested,” he explained, adding that major services are also conducting separate tests.
Senator Imee Marcos raised a question regarding Japan’s reported plan to establish an AI-powered drone aviation school at Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base in Cebu, to which Nafarette committed to gathering more details.
Following deliberations, CA National Defense Committee Majority Leader Rep. Ramon Guico recommended plenary approval for all 38 officers.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian commended Nafarette, who assumed the military’s top post in July following the compulsory retirement of Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.
“Once again, congratulations to Gen. Nafarette. Our newly-appointed AFP chief of staff. I know the armed forces face significant challenges, but we have full confidence and support that we will overcome them,” Gatchalian said. “Rest assured that we stand with you in providing support especially regarding the AFP;s modernization program.”