FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila - The Philippine Army installs a new head of the Office of the Army Chief Public Affairs (OACPA) in a Ceremony here today, September 27, 2021.
Outgoing Chief Col. Ramon Zagala relinquished his post to Col. Xerxes Trinidad in a traditional turn-over of office symbol presided by the Chief of Staff, Philippine Army Brig. Gen. Robert S. Capulong.
Before his assumption, Col. Trinidad was the Assistant Chief of Staff for CMO, G7 of the 4th Infantry Division. He was also the Commanding Officer of the 36th Infantry Battalion and the Executive Officer of the 402nd Infantry Brigade. Col. Trinidad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy "Marilag" class of 1995 and a graduate of Masters in Public Management Major in Development Security in Development Academy of the Philippines. Recently, he graduated in Masters in National Security Administration at National Defense College of the Philippines.
Meanwhile, Col. Zagala, who served in OACPA for more than two years, recently assumed as spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. During his stint, he maximized the use of the Army's social media accounts and media relations. He also worked closely with the celebrity reservists and personalities in promoting the Army's thrust and programs. Moreover, he also facilitated the special enlistment of 12 journalists and 11 experienced broadcasters to help the Army's public information program.
In his message, Brig. Capulong wished Col. Zagala good luck on his designation as the AFP spokesperson and welcomed the designation of Col. Trinidad as the mouthpiece of the Philippine Army.
"To Col. Zagala, your resolute commitment as the Army's "mouthpiece" has greatly enabled the entire organization to win the hearts of the Filipino people. We wish you all the best on your new duty as the AFP Spokesperson. I am sure that it will be a challenging yet fulfilling role for you will speak on behalf of the entire AFP," Brig. Gen. Capulong said in his message.
"To Col. Trinidad, we welcome your designation as the Army Chief Public Affairs. You will play a critical role in the overall success of OACPA and the Army as a whole, particularly in pursuing the Philippine Army's four major thrusts, namely, intelligence-driven operations, optimal use of resources, advancing professionalism, and meritocracy within the organization, and pursuing base and capability development. With your experience, I am confident that you're up to the challenge. Let us work together as ONE TEAM ARMY as we transform towards becoming a world-class Army that is a source of national pride," he concluded. #