Tinglayan Celebrates Another General: The Inspiring Story of Brig. Gen. Roy Onggao

For many children growing up in the mountains of Tinglayan, Kalinga, success is often measured by the courage to dream beyond the boundaries of their hometown while never forgetting where they came from.

For Brigadier General Reverend Roy Onggao, that dream has become a reality.

With faith as his compass and service as his calling, the son of Tinglayan has reached another remarkable milestone after earning his one-star rank in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)—a distinction that not only honors years of dedication but also adds another chapter to Tinglayan's growing legacy of producing outstanding public servants and military leaders.

His promotion is more than a personal achievement. For the people of Tinglayan, it is a source of pride and a reminder that humble beginnings can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

A life dedicated to service

On July 30, 2026, Rev. Brig. Gen. Roy Onggao, who serves as the Chief Chaplain of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, was formally promoted during a donning ceremony held at the Silid Lapulapu, General Headquarters Building, Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo.

He was among eight senior AFP officials elevated to higher ranks in recognition of their leadership and service. His new rank was donned by AFP Chief of Staff General Antonio G. Nafarrete, who reminded the newly promoted generals that every additional star represents greater responsibility. Rather than viewing the promotion as the culmination of a career, it symbolizes a deeper commitment to serving both the military and the nation.

As Chief Chaplain, Onggao's mission extends beyond military operations. He provides spiritual guidance, moral leadership, and pastoral care to soldiers and their families—serving those who dedicate their lives to protecting the country.

Carrying Tinglayan wherever he serves

Although his duties have taken him across the Philippines, Onggao continues to represent the values that many iKalingas hold dear—faith, humility, discipline, and service.

His achievement resonates deeply in Tinglayan, a municipality known not only for its rich culture and breathtaking landscapes but also for producing men and women who excel in public service, education, law enforcement, and the military.

His promotion serves as another testament that excellence knows no geographic boundaries.

One's place of origin does not determine how far one can go.

A community celebrates one of its own

The Municipality of Tinglayan warmly welcomed the promotion of one of its distinguished sons.

Mayor Charles Abay extended his congratulations, saying the municipality takes pride whenever iTinglayans reach new heights in their professions.

"Iti Municipal LGU tayo ket siraragsak nga mangkablaaw kenni Rev. BGen. Roy Onggao iti daytoy one-star rank nga nagun-od na manipud iti Armed Forces of the Philippines. We are always proud to see when iTinglayan sons and daughters mark career highs as it shows how determined, hard-working, and disciplined our kailyans are," the mayor said.

For the local government and residents alike, Onggao's success reflects not only his personal determination but also the character and resilience of the people of Tinglayan.

Leadership built on faith

Military leadership is often associated with strategy, command, and discipline.

For Brig. Gen. Onggao, however, leadership is equally rooted in compassion, integrity, and faith.

As a military chaplain, he has spent years strengthening the spiritual and emotional well-being of soldiers who face some of the nation's most difficult assignments.

His work reminds us that the Armed Forces is strengthened not only by those who lead troops into operations but also by those who provide hope, guidance, and encouragement behind the front lines.

An inspiration for the next generation

Every promotion tells a story.

Behind Brig. Gen. Onggao's new star are years of sacrifice, commitment, and unwavering dedication to his calling. For young people in Tinglayan and across Kalinga, his journey offers an important lesson: success is not defined by where one begins but by the values one carries throughout life's journey.

His story encourages aspiring leaders to pursue excellence with humility, embrace every opportunity to serve, and remain grounded in faith and integrity.

From the mountains of Tinglayan to the highest levels of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Brig. Gen. Roy Onggao's journey proves that true leadership is measured not only by rank but by the lives one inspires along the way.

Today, another star shines on his uniform. For Tinglayan, that star also shines as a symbol of hope, perseverance, and the limitless potential of every iKalinga who dares to dream and serve.