The Armed Forces of the Philippines recently marked an important moment with the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). It was a time to honor its first commander, Brigadier General Eliglen F. Villaflor, and to welcome Brigadier General Rosendo C. Abad Jr. as the new JSOC commander.

JSOC is a young command, officially activated only last May, but its role is critical. It brings together the AFP’s special operations units to work as one, strengthening coordination and readiness at a time when security challenges continue to evolve. Building a new command from the ground up is never easy, and BGen Villaflor took on that task with quiet resolve and steady leadership.

Under his watch, JSOC, then still transitioning from the Joint Special Operations Group, conducted dozens of joint operations that supported both internal security and external defense. These operations led to the neutralization of high-value targets and the recovery of firearms, explosives, and other critical equipment. 

AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. described BGen Villaflor as the cornerstone of JSOC’s growth, praising his dedication particularly in helping put in place the foundation that will benefit the AFP long after his retirement.

For those of us who have covered the AFP for years, you haven’t really covered much if you haven’t come across or heard about Brigadier General Eliglen ‘Glen’ Villaflor —  a distinguished officer who once commanded the 4th Special Forces Battalion in Basilan. During his deployment, he led operations against the Abu Sayyaf and other threat groups in the province. These efforts, carried out alongside other AFP units, ultimately contributed to Basilan being declared ASG-free a few years later.

As BGen Villaflor steps away from active service after decades of duty, the nation owes him more than formal applause. We owe him thanks for service rendered and for leadership exercised with humility.

At the same time, we extend our best wishes to BGen Rosendo C. Abad Jr. as he assumes command. With the strong foundation already laid, JSOC is well-positioned to move forward and continue serving the country with professionalism and unity.

To BGen Eliglen Villaflor: congratulations on a career well served, and thank you for leaving the AFP stronger than you found it.