Commodore Rudiardo A. Brown Beaching Area, Cavite City, Cavite
June 17, 2019

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte gave his high commendation to the uniformed personnel of the Philippine Navy (PN) for their notable feats against the modern threats of terrorism, smuggling, and human trafficking when he graced their 121st anniversary held at the Commodore Rudiardo A. Brown Beaching Area in Cavite.

“In February of this year alone, you heroically rescued seven crew members from a sinking launch boat in Tawi-Tawi, intercepted vessels engaged in human trafficking and smuggling of imported tobacco products in Zamboanga, and captured communists and Abu Sayyaf terrorists, including the primary suspect in the recent bombing of Jolo,” President Duterte said.

With the acquisition of two (2) anti-submarine helicopters and four (4) amphibious assault vehicles, the Commander-in-Chief stressed the vital role of enhancing the capabilities of armed facilities and services in protecting the country against all threats in the seas.

President Duterte also recognized the achievements of seven (7) units from the Philippine Navy and three (3) individual awardees, as well as the 26 Order of Lapu-Lapu recipients, where three (3) soldiers were awarded with the Rank of Kampilan, and the rest receiving the Rank of Kamagi.

“In today’s awardees, let this be a milestone to inspire you to harness your skills and expertise to promote the common good. I trust that you will continue to be the embodiment of integrity and passion as you protect the seas and secure the future of the land,” he said, as he also urged the Philippine Navy to maximize their potential and capacity to fight violent extremism.

Closing his remarks, the President once again pledged his full support and confidence to the Philippine Navy. “Always keep in mind that this government will always assist the men and women of the Philippine Navy as we pursue a more peaceful future for everybody,” he ended.

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