The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) welcomed new leaders to its top ranks in a Joint Change of Chief of Office Ceremony held earlier today. AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. led the event, marking transitions in the military’s leadership structure.
Lieutenant General Jimmy Larida officially assumed the position of vice chief of staff, succeeding Lieutenant General Arthur Cordura, who continues his duties as the commanding general of the Philippine Air Force.
Before this appointment, Lt. Gen. Larida served as the AFP’s deputy chief of staff, bringing with him extensive experience in strategic military operations and administration. He was also assigned in Palawan as the commander of the 3rd Marine Brigade.
Simultaneously, Brigadier General Elmer Suderio took over as the deputy chief of staff for operations Brig. Gen. Suderio’s career includes roles as commander of the 102nd Infantry “Igsoon” Brigade, chief of Unified Command Staff at Western Mindanao Command (WESMINCOM), and deputy chief of staff for operations for the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division during the Marawi Siege in 2017.
A member of the Philippine Military Academy “Maalab” Class of 1993, BGen Suderio is also an alumnus of the U.S. Army War College in Pennsylvania.
Brawner, in his remarks, lauded Lt. Gen. Larida for stepping into his new role with a vision to sustain the standards set by his predecessor, Lt. Gen. Cordura.
He also commended Brig. Gen. Suderio for his leadership and dedication, emphasizing the importance of continuity in the AFP’s pursuit of excellence.
