President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has vowed to strengthen the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) as Vice Admiral Rommel Supangan takes over as its new commandant.
During the PCG change of command and retirement ceremony at Pier 13 in South Harbor, Manila, on Monday, Oct. 19, Marcos Jr. underscored the agency’s role in protecting Filipino fishermen, responding to maritime emergencies and defending the country’s rights at sea.
“Across our waters, the PCG works alongside other maritime agencies to safeguard our people, protect our maritime interests, and uphold our sovereign rights,” the President said.
Marcos described the Coast Guard as a key government agency that Filipinos rely on during storms, maritime accidents and other emergencies.
“The Philippine Coast Guard is, in many ways, the face of the Filipino at sea,” he said.
“When a storm happens, a vessel gets into trouble, the PCG responds. When our fishermen need assistance, the Coast Guard answers the call,” Marcos Jr. added.
The President expressed confidence that Supangan would build on the work of outgoing commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, who is retiring from the service.
Supangan previously served as commander of the Coast Guard Fleet, Coast Guard District Palawan and the Marine Environmental Protection Command.
“I am confident that you will build on the accomplishments of your predecessor, further strengthening the Philippine Coast Guard with the full support of this Administration,” Marcos Jr. said.
The President also urged Coast Guard personnel to uphold the agency’s tradition of courage, discipline and professionalism as it continues to face complex maritime challenges.IMT
