President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday called on 21 recently-promoted flag officers of the Philippine Coast Guard to uphold high standards of integrity and lead by example in protecting the country’s seas.
This was he administered the oath of office to one vice admiral, two rear admirals, and 18 commodores in a ceremony in Malacañang.
First Lady Liza Marcos, who holds the honorary rank of Auxiliary Vice Admiral in the PCG’s Auxiliary unit, joined the President.
Vice Admiral Rommel Supangan, PCG spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela and PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab were among those who took their oath before the President.
In his remarks, Marcos cited the PCG’s key role especially in a country made up of thousands of islands, as well as the PCG’s role in patrolling the West Philippine Sea and protecting fisherfolk and marine resources.
“This right that you carry is a responsibility that impacts every Filipino, especially those who depend on the sea, and in the Philippines that counts every single Filipino,” the President said.
“This is the courage that we see in men and women on the Philippine coastline. This is the standard that I ask you to carry into your command,” he added.
He urged the new flag officers to prepare the next generation of leaders of the PCG while adapting to modernization and innovation.
“Lead by example. Uphold the highest standards of integrity… Serve in a way that honors the oath that you took today. Lead with courage and integrity. Always remember whom you serve,” Marcos said.