Legarda Lauds New AFP Chief for being a Green Warrior

SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA TODAY LAUDED LT. GEN. EMMANUEL BAUTISTA, NEWLY-INSTALLED ARMED FORCES OF THE PHILIPPINES (AFP) CHIEF OF STAFF, FOR BEING A GREEN WARRIOR BY GIVING DUE IMPORTANCE TO CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.
“Our soldiers are now one with us in the great battle against climate change and environmental degradation. I am glad that the new AFP Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Bautista, has declared that the military will also give due focus on efforts to make our nation disaster-resilient,” said Legarda, a reserve officer in the AFP.
In his speech during the turnover of command, Bautista said that the effects of climate change have become greater and the military should pay serious attention to this “emerging concern”.
He vowed to strengthen the AFP’s capacity for disaster rescue and relief while also taking part in environmental protection to combat the adverse effects of climate change.
“Our times and climes have changed. This is the harsh reality that even our soldiers now realize. Our armed forces are no longer merely rescuers in times of calamities, they are now green warriors who will protect our people from the threats of natural hazards,” Legarda said.
“The AFP’s stronger involvement in our climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction efforts, will make our communities better prepared against disasters,” Legarda concluded.