MANILA, Philippines — First Lady Liza Marcos yesterday joined the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA) Executive Squadron.
Marcos, 64, was given an honorary rank of auxiliary vice admiral.
PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said this was the first time that a president’s spouse joined the PCGA.
Marcos’ oath-taking and donning of the rank was led by PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan and Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista.
Marcos’ son Vincent attended the event.
She thanked the PCG for “ensuring maritime safety and upholding the country’s sovereign rights in the West Philippine Sea.”
Marcos said she joined the PCG to inspire the men and women of the Coast Guard as they fulfill their duty.
Aside from being a lawyer, the First Lady is also an educator and an advocate for education, culture and the arts.
In his speech, Gavan underscored the support being given by the PCGA to the Coast Guard in performing its mandate.