Manila, Philippines – Armed Forces of the Philippines AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. led the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) which was formerly the Joint Special Operations Group in Camp Aguinaldo.
The JSOC is the newly activated command established in May to institutionalize jointness and enhance the AFP’s operational readiness amid evolving security challenges.
“Brigadier General Rosendo C. Abad Jr., PA, will replace the unit’s first Commander, Brigadier General Eliglen F. Villaflor, PA.”
Brawner, emphasized the importance of the leadership transition in consolidating JSOC’s foundation as a newly activated command established in May to institutionalize jointness and enhance the AFP’s operational readiness amid evolving security challenges.
Under Villaflor’s leadership, JSOC formerly JSOG supported Internal Defense and Security Operations and contributed to both internal and external security efforts.
From 2022 to 2025, the Command conducted 52 joint operations that led to the neutralization of high-value targets and the recovery of firearms, explosives, and critical equipment.
General Brawner commended BGen Villaflor for contributions to the AFP and welcomed BGen Abad, citing his extensive experience in special operations and leadership within the Special Forces.
Brawner expressed confidence that JSOC will continue to strengthen joint interoperability and advance the AFP’s defense and security posture under his command.