The Special Operations Command (SOCOM) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is expected to improve military operations in addressing threats through speed and silent precision.

AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. expressed strong confidence in the ongoing effectiveness of SOCOM as he welcomed MGen. Ferdinand Napuli as the new unit commander.

“I am confident that SOCOM will continue to be at the tip of the spear in defending our people, protecting our sovereignty, and confronting threats with speed and silent precision,” Brawner said in his speech after he presided over the Change of Command Ceremony at Fort Ramon Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija on 7 May.

Brawner emphasized that the leadership transition in SOCOM reflects a steadfast commitment and seamless operational continuity.

“We have reached the end of the ceremony, but the work of the Command—its vigilance, its readiness, its fight—never pauses. In fact, it continues with renewed force,” he said.

Napuli succeeds BGen. Patrick De Villa, who served as SOCOM's acting commander and has now been appointed as its Deputy Commander.

Napuli, a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy “Tanglaw-Diwa” Class of 1992, previously served as the Inspector General of the Philippine Army and has commanded the elite Special Forces Regiment (Airborne).