Antonio Nafarrete appointed as the new AFP chief

Mikaela Ariar, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
July 21, 2026

(Photo Courtesy: Philippine Army)

PHILIPPINES – Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete has been appointed as the new chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Department of National Defense (DND) announced on July 21.

Nafarrete replaced General Romeo Brawner Jr., who retired after completing his three-year term under Republic Act No. 11939. The law aims to strengthen modernization and ensure continuity within the military.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. announced Nafarrete’s appointment ahead of the AFP’s change of command and retirement ceremony.

Before taking the country’s top military post, Nafarrete served as the commanding general of the Philippine Army. He is now the 61st chief of staff of the AFP.

Additionally, Lieutenant General Donald Gumiran, who previously led the Western Mindanao Command, will replace Nafarrete as the new commanding general of the Philippine Army.