President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed the former commander of his close-in security detail as the new chief of the Philippine military’s intelligence unit, Malacañang said on Saturday.

“The Palace confirms that President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has appointed former Presidential Security Group commander BGen. Jose Eriel Niembra as the new Intelligence Service of Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) chief,” Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said.

“We wish BGen Niembra all the best in his new assignment,” Roque said.

Niembra, prior to his appointment as ISAFP chief, served as PSG commander from May 2018 until February 2020.

Col. Jesus Durante III replaced him as chief of the President’s security detail.

On the other hand, Niembra succeeded Brigadier General Artuz, who served as deputy Chief of ISAFP on December 10, 2018 before being appointed as ISAFP Chief on February 12, 2020.

AFP Chief of Staff, General Felimon Santos Jr.  said Niembra is a “worthy successor” at the helm of ISAFP.

“I am confident that the newly posted Chief, ISAFP, Brigadier General Niembra, would be able to inspire and lead Team ISAFP to greater milestones in the future. The AFP leadership will support you in all your endeavors,” Santos said.

The AFP chief led the joint change of chief of office and retirement ceremony via teleconferencing at the General Headquarters Building while AFP Deputy Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Antonio Ramon Lim led the ceremonies at the AFP Commissioned Officers Country last Friday.

Meanwhile,  BGen. Francisco Ariel Felicidario III assumed as AFP Peace and Development Office (AFPPDO) chief.

Felicidario  replaced BGen. Cesar De Mesa, who served as AFPPDO chief since July 2018./Stacy Ang