DAVAO CITY, Philippines — Major General Jose Maria R. Cuerpo II, the Commander of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division, officially took over as the Acting Commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command during a Retirement and Change of Command Ceremony at the Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Camp Panacan, Davao City on May 31.
He assumes the position from Lieutenant General Greg T. Almerol, who has reached the mandatory retirement age.
The ceremony was overseen by Lieutenant General Charlton Sean Gaerlan, the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, representing the AFP Chief of Staff.
Lt. Gen. Almerol, a member of the PMA “Makatao” Class of 1989, served as the CEMC since March 2021 and played a significant role in advancing the command’s efforts, particularly in combating insurgency.
Meanwhile, Maj. Gen. Cuerpo II, a member of the PMA “Bigkis-Lahi” Class of 199, has been instrumental in leading the 4ID in various successful operations and initiatives against the communist terrorist group (CTG).
Since March 2023, Cuerpo has been pivotal in maintaining peace and development in Northern Mindanao and the Caraga region. Notably, he previously commanded the 103rd Brigade and led troops during the Marawi siege in 2017. While assuming the role of Acting Commander of EMC, Maj. Gen. Cuerpo II will retain his position as the 4ID Commander.
During the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Cuerpo II expressed his steadfast commitment to continue the fight against terrorism in all its forms and pledged to safeguard the well-being of the people in Eastern Mindanao.
“As the interim head of the Eastern Mindanao Command, I recognize the daunting challenges that lie ahead. I am dedicated to upholding the legacy established by Lt. Gen. Almerol. I acknowledge the weight of responsibility that accompanies this role and the importance of our future endeavors. I assure you that I will lead our forces with utmost diligence and efficacy. I urge all troops to remain focused and united in our mission,” said Maj. Gen. Cuerpo II.
