Major General Gilberto Lopes Garcia took office as the new commander of the Madeira Operational Command (COM), succeeding Major General Paulo Jorge Lopes da Silva.
His priorities include strengthening operational readiness, preparing to respond to emergencies, and cooperating with regional and local authorities. Garcia highlighted Madeira's strategic position and the command's need for a permanent capacity for anticipation, coordination, and response.
The new commander advocated for enhancing operational capabilities and force readiness, emphasizing the importance of joint training and interoperability. He aims to maintain close relationships with various regional and local institutions, recognizing that cooperation is essential to meet current challenges.
