Noy to Navy: Remain steadfast in protecting the country

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino urged Navy troops to remain steadfast in their duties in securing and protecting the country’s maritime territories as he presided over the Philippine Navy change of command rites at the Heracleo Alano Naval Base at Sangley Point, Cavite yesterday.

Rear Admiral Jesus Millan took over yesterday as Navy flag-officer-in-command, replacing Vice Admiral Jose Luis Alano who retired from military service.

Aquino, who arrived aboard the Navy’s flagship BRP Gregorio del Pilar, praised Alano for a job well done, saying that under his leadership, the Navy grew into a better military unit.

“You must remain steadfast in your duties. Let this be an anchor in your trust in and concern for the Filipino people,” the President told Navy troops.

He cited Alano for his bolder but peaceful stand in handling the country’s maritime dispute in the West Philippine Sea and lauded his leadership in looking after the welfare of his people on the frontline, especially the nine Marine soldiers previously deployed at Ayungin Shoal.

At present, troops in the Kalayaan Island Group are being rotated every three months and resupplied with items and food through airdrop or boat.

In his assumption speech, Millan outlined his seven-point program that includes initiatives in transforming the Navy into a modern Navy in the future.

His guidelines include commitment to good governance; continuing reforms, aligning strategies with the military and defense leadership to address priority security challenges; sustain the fleet-marine team to meet the operational needs of the present, and pursue the Navy’s human capital strategy.

“We will always aspire for transparency, accountability and judicious use of resources to sustain our naval forces,” Millan said, adding that the welfare of frontline troops would be his top priority.

He said the Navy plans to acquire three amphibian aircraft to bolster its sea and airlift capabilities in line with ongoing capability upgrade and modernization programs.

New NDRRMC chief

Meanwhile, Aquino designated yesterday former Navy chief, retired Vice Admiral Alexander Pama, as new executive director of the National Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), replacing retired Army Gen. Eduardo del Rosario.  

Citing health reasons, Del Rosario submitted his resignation last April 24 to Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, whose department is in charge of the NDRRMC.