Army installs new chief for reservist, retiree affairs

The Philippine Army installed Col. Arnel Bautista as the new assistant chief of staff for reservist and retiree affairs (OG-9) on Monday.

In a ceremonial change of office at the PA Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Bautista officially replaced outgoing chief Col. Jaime Datuin, who has been leading the office's affairs and operations since September 2021.

Prior to his new appointment, Bautista served as the Group Commander of the 1st Regional Community Defense Group, Army Reserve Command prior to his new assignment.

He also held various leadership positions in the 9th Infantry Division such as the Commandant of the Division Training School, Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, and Commanding Officer of the 49th Infantry Battalion.

Bautista is a member of the Philippine Military Academy "Bantay-Laya" Class 1994.

Meanwhile, Datuin graduated from the Armed Forces of the Philippines Officer Candidate School as a member of Class 11-1993.

During his stint as assistant chief of staff for reservist and retiree affairs, Datuin initiated several programs and activities aiming to enhance the welfare of the Army's reservists and retirees.

Army Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Potenciano Camba extended his congratulations to Bautista for his new assignment.

Camba also encouraged the office personnel to continue their efforts, with the newly installed head, "to develop a more reliable Army Reserve force."