FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila- The Army Artillery Regiment (AAR) welcomed their new Regiment Commander in a Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony held at Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija today, February 17, 2020.
The AAR is at the forefront of the Army modernization in line with its Land Maneuver Concept to address external, internal, and hybrid threats. Programmed to receive new equipment, the AAR recently created its additional Batteries on Multiple Launch Rocket System, Land Based Missile System, Air Defense Artillery, and Field Artillery.
Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Gilbert I. Gapay presided the handing over of responsibilities from outgoing Regiment Commander Brig. Gen. Virgilio B. Bartolome to incoming Acting Commander Col. Romulo A. Manuel Jr.
Bartolome will not only leave his post as Regiment Commander but the military service as well. He was in the service for 36 years during which he has distinguished himself in the areas of artillery, logistics, and administration where he has held various command and staff positions. During his stint as commander in AAR, he also prioritized the welfare and morale of his troops.
Manuel, prior to the turn over, was the Assistant Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs. He was a graduate of Business Administration and Public Management at Xavier University and Development Academy of the Philippines respectively. He completed the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course and was sent to the US Field Artillery School in Fort Sill, Oklahoma to take the Captain’s Career Course, after which he served as the Department Head of the Field Artillery Department of Combat Arms School, TRADOC from 2001 to 2003. In 2005, he served as Military Liaison Officer and Training Adviser respectively outside the country. “His extensive training and accomplishments guarantee that he will serve with competence and distinction,” Gapay said.
“In line with the direction set by my predecessor and other commanders before him,” Manuel said, “I shall ensure the continuity of the initiatives that they have put in place and pursue it with earnest commitment.”
“Let us all work together as we adhere to our overall direction of sustaining the momentum in capacitating the army towards greater mission effectiveness,” said Gapay. #