Coconut Palace, Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), Roxas Boulevard, Manila
May 22, 2018
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte hailed the Philippine Navy (PN) for its 120 years of unwavering service, sacrifice, dedication, and commitment to defend the country’s shores, protect the seas, and secure the maritime borders in his speech during its 120th anniversary at the Coconut Palace of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) in Roxas Boulevard, Manila.
“It was only last year when we celebrated the Philippine Navy’s anniversary during the Marawi Siege. Then, we honored the heroic efforts of the men and women of the Navy and Marines in the liberation of Marawi. Today, we once again honor them as we make significant progress in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of that city,” he said.
During the event, the Commander-in-Chief also administered the awarding of Order of Lapu-Lapu, Rank of Kamagi to RAdm. Rene Medina, Commander of Naval Forces Western Mindanao; BGen. Melquiades Ordiales, Jr., Commander of 1st Marine Brigade; Lt.Col. Gerald Bautista, Commanding Officer of Marine Battalion Landing Team 7; Lt.Col. Dante Robert Grasparil, Commanding Officer of Marine Battalion Landing Team 10; and Lt.Cdr. Fredie Parpan, Commanding Officer of the Naval Intelligence Security Group Western Mindanao.
After officiating the awarding, President Duterte witnessed the simultaneous series of alternating pass and review of naval surface and air assets, and a simulation of a raid performed by the Naval Special Operations Group and Marine Special Operations Group personnel.
“I will finish by saying: Together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, I am confident that one day, we will realize our aspiration of building a strong and resilient nation. I therefore ask each of you to do your part so that in the next 120 years, we can establish a naval force that will last lifetime and maybe we can start invading other nations. Again, happy 120th anniversary at mabuhay ang Hukbong Dagat ng Pilipinas,” President Duterte said.
* * *