New armed forces chief takes over

New Armed Forces Chief of Staff, former army Lieutenant General Diomedio Villanueva promised to unite the military, following reports that his appointment had created a rift in the military.

"I believe in General Villanueva's capacity to consolidate the unity of the Armed Forces as this is a crucial period in our national life. He is fit for the job and is credible," said President Gloria Arroyo who led the handing-over ceremony at suburban Quezon City's Camp Aguinaldo.

It was attended by former President Fidel Ramos, Senator Rodolfo Biazon, and former Defence Chief Renato de Villa, now Executive Secretary of the new administration.

Hoping that her choice would put an end to a reported power struggle in the military, Arroyo asked all men in service to be united, adding if this does not happen the military "becomes not a protector, or guardian, but a threat to our cherished democratic way of life."

"He (Villanueva) is a quiet champion of values. He will keep the ship on an even keel for the good of the nation and our people," said Arroyo, adding, "The Filipino people is proud to have an Armed Forces that is truly united in faith and action. The solidarity of the commanders before us is clear and unequivocal."

"I call on everyone to join and close ranks with me," said Villanueva, adding: "I am committed to the modernisation of the Armed Forces and the forging of peace settlements with various insurgent groups (the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the communist National Democratic Front)." He was earlier accused of not supporting the government's peace initiative with the separatist MILF.

Meanwhile, Arroyo failed to confirm the appointment of outgoing military chief General Angelo Reyes as the new defence secretary.

Talking about Reyes, Arroyo said, "General Reyes is too young to retire at 56. It is for this reason that I intend to make sure his capabilities are not wasted nor his momentum for service interrupted while I am president of the republic."

Arroyo's appointment of Reyes as her defence secretary is being perceived as a reward for his abandonment of former president Joseph Estrada at the end of the four-day popular street protests which paved the way for the latter's ouster on January 20.

Reyes earlier confirmed in a television interview that the Armed Forces were divided prior to the final confirmation of Villanueva's appointment.

Reyes pushed for Villanueva's appointment, to the disappointment of some generals who are in active service.

Their voices added to reports of a major rift in the military, a disturbing development which could affect the stability of the Arroyo administration.

Other generals have criticised Reyes for wanting to remain in power as defence chief so that he would not be accused of corruption charges such as the alleged purchase of overpriced K-nine dogs.