Thursday, May 08, 2008 Mindanao execs welcome Yano as new AFP chief By Ben O. Tesiorna
TWO Mindanao officials welcomed the appointment of Lieutenant General Alexander Yano as the incoming chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines vice General Hermogenes Esperon Jr.
Compostela Valley Governor Arturo "Chiongkee" Uy said Yano is most qualified to head the AFP in these times of marked by a growing insurgency problem.
"He is most qualified. He could set a new direction in solving insurgency problem," Uy said.
North Cotabato Vice Governor Emmanuel Pinol meanwhile expressed confidence on Yano's capability to lead the military and recalled that he was assigned for some time here in Mindanao.
"I'm happy that another bemedalled officer who understands the security problems of the south has been named AFP chief of staff. This will greatly help in our efforts to attain security and stability in the south," Pinol said.
The turnover of command was earlier scheduled Wednesday, but was postponed to May 12. (With Peng Alino)
