BRIGADIER General Charlie L. Tiu Jr. officially assumed his post as the new deputy commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command (EastMinCom) during a formal ceremony on Wednesday, July 29, at the EastMinCom Headquarters in Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan.
The ceremony was presided over by EastMinCom commander LTGEN Adonis Ariel G. Orio, with chief of Unified Command Staff COL Jorry L. Baclor leading the ceremonial turnover of duties before military officers, enlisted personnel, and civilian staff.
In his address, Tiu highlighted that operational leadership must be anchored on integrity, accountability, and leading by personal example rather than rank alone.
“As I assume the responsibilities of deputy commander of Eastern Mindanao Command, I do so with the firm conviction that leadership begins with personal example,” Tiu said. “This appointment carries not only the authority of office but, more importantly, the responsibility to embody the values we ask every soldier, airman, sailor, marine, and civilian member of this Command to uphold—integrity, professionalism, accountability, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to mission accomplishment.”
Tiu, who grew up in Cagayan de Oro City, described his assignment to EastMinCom as a meaningful return to his roots.
“Assuming this post feels very much like coming home. I am not new here in Mindanao, ” Tiu shared. “Having grown up in Cagayan de Oro, the culture, warmth, resilience, and spirit of Mindanao have always been part of who I am. With family, relatives, and long-time friends residing here, Davao and the wider Mindanao region remain close to my heart.”
For his part, Orio expressed full trust in Tiu’s capability to help direct the command, calling on all personnel across ground, air, and naval units to maintain seamless synergy and discipline.
“A unified command succeeds not because of one office alone, but because every part of the organization performs its role well,” Orio stated.
A seasoned officer from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Marilag” Class of 1995, Tiu brings extensive operational experience to the command, having held several key staff and command positions in the Philippine Air Force.
