CA panel recommends confirmation of AFP chief Catapang

The Commission on Appointments committee on national defense on Wednesday recommended the confirmation to the plenary of Armed Forces chief General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., even commending him for the successful escape of 40 Filipino peacekeepers from Syrian rebels in Golan Heights.

 

During the proceedings, Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento lauded Catapang for being decisive in handling the Golan Heights incident and guiding the Filipino soldiers not to surrender despite the order for them to do so.

 

On the other hand, Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said he will be filing a resolution in the House of Representatives commending Catapang and the Filipino peacekeepers.

 

Asked by Rep. George Arnaiz asked how the soldiers escaped, Catapang said they did so in the middle of the night while the Syrian rebels were sleeping.

 

"We know that the rebels sleep at night unlike our guards. We know in the morning that there will be another attack," said Catapang.

 

Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, a former Navy officer, asked if the peacekeepers can be given combat promotion, Catapang replied in the affirmative.

 

"That (promotion) can be possible," the military chief said.

 

Trillanes said it would be "fitting reward for their gallantry."

 

Catapang also said the Filipino soldiers did not surrender their firearms because it was owned by the Philippine government.

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