Zamboanga City, Philippines — The Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) held a solemn and dignified Change of Command and Retirement Ceremonies on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, honoring its outgoing commander, Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, at the WestMinCom Grandstand in Camp Navarro, Calarian. The event was presided over by Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Courtesy of Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom).
Lt. Gen. Gonzales officially relinquished his post to Maj. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, the current Commander of the 6th Infantry Division (6ID), who assumed the role of Acting WestMinCom Commander.
The ceremonies highlighted Lt. Gen. Gonzales’ distinguished military career. During the retirement segment, he received plaques of recognition, lauding his exemplary leadership that inspired both peers and subordinates. His wife, Mrs. Citesa Divina Gonzales, was also honored with a plaque of appreciation for her unwavering support throughout his service.
In his valedictory address, Lt. Gen. Gonzales reflected on his tenure and expressed heartfelt gratitude. “As commander of this command, I have had the incredible responsibility—and privilege—of leading the finest soldiers and civilian human resources in our armed forces,” he said. He commended the men and women of WestMinCom, acknowledging their dedication as the foundation of the command’s successes.
Maj. Gen. Nafarrete, in his acceptance speech, thanked the AFP leadership for entrusting him with the role and committed to upholding WestMinCom’s legacy of excellence. He vowed to lead the command toward new heights of achievement.
Gen. Brawner also paid tribute to Lt. Gen. Gonzales’ significant contributions as the 18th Commander of WestMinCom, emphasizing the lasting impact of his leadership. He expressed confidence in Maj. Gen. Nafarrete’s ability to guide the command with distinction.
The afternoon session featured Maj. Gen. Nafarrete’s first command conference as Acting WestMinCom Commander. During the meeting, Brig. Gen. Aldrin Annani and Col. Emmanuel Cabasan, along with other Unified Command Staff members, briefed him on current initiatives and future plans. The conference concluded with Maj. Gen. Nafarrete providing comprehensive guidance and encouragement to the command’s personnel.
The day’s events were attended by an array of dignitaries, including Lt. Gen. Gonzales’ family and friends; Lt. Gen. Fernando Reyeg of the Visayas Command; Maj. Gen. Rommel Roldan, Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel; and Brig. Gen. Bernardo Fortez, The Adjutant General. Joint Task Force commanders, brigade commanders, stakeholders from private and public sectors, and WestMinCom personnel also graced the occasion.
As Lt. Gen. Gonzales officially concluded his storied career, his legacy continues to inspire the ranks of the armed forces. Meanwhile, the WestMinCom community looks forward to a new chapter under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Nafarrete.