AFP names new Joint Task Force NCR commander

The Armed Forces of the Philippines named BGen. Jimmy Larida as the new commander of the Joint Task Force National Capital Region.

Military's Public Affairs chief, Col. Xerxes Trinidad, told reporters that AFP vice chief of staff LtGen. Arthur Cordura graced the ceremonial change of command at the JTF NCR Multipurpose Hall, AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on Wednesday.

Larida, who previously served as the Philippine Marines Corps deputy commandant, will replace former JTF NCR chief BGen Alexei Musñgi, who will be assigned to the Philippine Army's 11th Infantry Division.

In his remarks, Cordura expressed gratitude to both Larida and Musñgi for their respective accomplishments in their previous duties.

"The AFP leadership fully supports your future initiatives and all of your undertaking," he told the military officials.

Cordura likewise emphasized the important role of JTF NCR in actively conducting security and stability operations as well as supporting the Philippine National Police, and coordinating with other agencies for the execution of humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

"To the valiant men and women of JTF NCR, keep up with the finest practices, support even more your present commander, strive for further successes, and urge one another to constantly go beyond what is expected," he said.

The AFP's JTF NCR is also assigned to combat terrorism insurgency and support the PNP-NCR to maintain peace and order in Metro Manila.