By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Monday, 29 March 2010
In its pursuit to develop the character and values of its troops, the Philippine Navy joins the launching of Gawin ang Tama Movement on Sunday, 28 March 2010 at Global City, Taguig City. The Character Building Foundation, Inc and the Weber Shandwick Worldwide spearhead the launching with the theme “The Way to Peace-Gawin ang Tama.”
The Philippine Navy shares the advocacy of Gawin ang Tama Movement in espousing strong positive character through education and information for building a progressive nation. The highlight of the activity was the street parade from Global City to McKinley Hill, Taguig City. This was participated by all sectors of the society like the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Bantay-Bayan Foundation Inc. youth organizations, other sectoral groups and non-government organizations who believe in the Gawin ang Tama Movement.
The Navy’s participation to the advocacy of Gawin ang Tama Movement does not end after the street parade but will be a personal commitment of every Sailor and Marine to uphold what is right in the pursuit of lasting peace, progress and development.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Testimonial Parade Review and Honor of VADM FERDINAND S GOLEZ AFP
By: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Saturday, 27 March 2010
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy troops the line of cadets of the Philippine Military Academy with Vice Admiral Leonardo C Calderon, Superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy and the Brigade Commander of the Cadet Corps Armed Forces of the Philippines during the Testimonial Parade and Review in his honor on 27 March 2010, at around 10 a.m. PMA accorded the honor to VADM Golez as a fitting tribute for his achievements that had made him earned the esteemed admiration of 20,000 strong members of the Team Navy.
Vice Admiral Leanardo C Calderon AFP, Superintendent, Philippine Military Academy hand over the Plaque of Appreciation to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy in recognition to the 38 years of relevant service rendered to the AFP specifically to the Philippine Navy. Said plaque also symbolizes the gratitude for the invaluable and significant contribution of VADM Golez in enriching the quality of education of the cadets of the premiere military institution in Asia by providing a state-of-the-art Navy Laboratory, Navy wardroom and Fleet-Marine classrooms that was inaugurated that same day. VADM Golez is escorted by his wife, Mrs. Shirley Mamaril-Golez.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez AFP, the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy, salutes the cadets of the Philippine Military Academy during the Testimonial Parade and Review rendered in his honor for his 38 years of faithful and dedicated service to the Armed Forces of the Philippines on 27 March 2010.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Saturday, 27 March 2010
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy troops the line of cadets of the Philippine Military Academy with Vice Admiral Leonardo C Calderon, Superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy and the Brigade Commander of the Cadet Corps Armed Forces of the Philippines during the Testimonial Parade and Review in his honor on 27 March 2010, at around 10 a.m. PMA accorded the honor to VADM Golez as a fitting tribute for his achievements that had made him earned the esteemed admiration of 20,000 strong members of the Team Navy.
Vice Admiral Leanardo C Calderon AFP, Superintendent, Philippine Military Academy hand over the Plaque of Appreciation to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy in recognition to the 38 years of relevant service rendered to the AFP specifically to the Philippine Navy. Said plaque also symbolizes the gratitude for the invaluable and significant contribution of VADM Golez in enriching the quality of education of the cadets of the premiere military institution in Asia by providing a state-of-the-art Navy Laboratory, Navy wardroom and Fleet-Marine classrooms that was inaugurated that same day. VADM Golez is escorted by his wife, Mrs. Shirley Mamaril-Golez.
Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez AFP, the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy, salutes the cadets of the Philippine Military Academy during the Testimonial Parade and Review rendered in his honor for his 38 years of faithful and dedicated service to the Armed Forces of the Philippines on 27 March 2010.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
PMA Honors Navy Chief
By: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Saturday, 27 March 2010
In observance of the military’s time-honored tradition of rendering Testimonial Parade and Review to its alumnus who has distinguished himself in the profession of arms and has rendered faithful and dedicated service, the Philippine Military Academy honors one of its outstanding alumni, Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy on 27 March 2010 Saturday at the Academy’s hallowed grounds. The honors to be afforded to the Navy Chief is PMA’s fitting tribute to this seasoned sailor, adroit skipper, and excellent leader that earned for himself the esteemed admiration of the 20,000 strong sailors, marines, and civilian employees of the Philippine Navy.
A member of PMA Class of 1976, Admiral Golez assumed as the 30th Flag Officer In Command in August of 2008 and commenced his advocacies for naval prominence, strengthening of the Navy’s core competency, and leadership by example. These advocacies have revitalized the Navy’s performance of its traditional military role of defense and security, but has also made the Navy take an active role in its non-traditional role of peoples partner in nation-building.. With his sterling leadership, he paved the way to the acquisition of 3 Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts inaugurated in May 2009 and deployed to the different operational areas of the country in July 2009 as the Navy’s contribution to the AFP’s ISO campaign.
Vice Admiral Golez entered the Philippine Military Academy in 1972 and graduated in 1976, ranked 19th in a field of 72, most of whom joined the Army and the now-defunct Philippine Constabulary. He was among the 11 cadets who joined the Navy. He formally started his professional career in the Philippine Navy as the Deck and Gunnery Officer of RPS South Cotabato (LT87), his first shipboard assignment in 1976. He earned the most coveted Command-at-Sea badge through his stint as the Commanding Officer of three different types of PN vessels namely: BRP Bagong Silang (PG 102), BRP Miguel Malvar (PS 19) and BRP Quezon (PS70).
The Vice Admiral is not only a seasoned sailor who has successfully commanded three ships, but is a well-rounded military officer who held key posts in the fields of intelligence, operations, and education and training. He also served as Commander of two naval commands- Eastern Mindanao based in Davao City and Southern Luzon based in Legazpi, Albay. He also served as the commander of the Naval Intelligence and Security Force and concurrently as the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Intelligence (N2).
His military education and training is complemented by the schooling and instruction he received from civilian training institutions here and abroad, an experience that honed his skills and talents. He attended the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, USA were he completed his Naval Command and Staff Course. Having served the military institution for 38 years, Vice Admiral Golez has received various awards and commendations.
In November 2009, the Republic of Indonesia conferred the Bintang Jalasena Utama (Indonesian Navy Star, 1st Class) to VADM Golez, an award conferred by the Indonesian President based on the proposal from the commandant of the Indonesian Navy. He was cited for his “invaluable services rendered in the improvement and strengthening of a good joint cooperation with the Government of Republic of Indonesia in general, and National Military Navy of both countries in particular.”
After the ceremony, the Navy Chief will preside over the inauguration of the Navy Laboratory, Navy wardroom, and the Fleet-Marine classrooms for the PMA cadets courtesy of the Philippine Navy command. The Navy laboratory is a mock-up replica of the main control room of a Philippine Navy vessel called “bridge”, purposely constructed and developed to give the Navy cadets the hands-on experience of what it will be like to be a real Sailor. This prototype bridge is equipped with the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities for the Navy cadets to be abreast of the modern technology being utilized aboard ship. The Navy wardroom is also conceptualized to provide a space and the legroom for the Navy officers and cadets to interact and bond with their comrades, enjoy a sumptuous meal or a place to just sit back and relax. While the Fleet-Marine classroom is a first of its kind, specifically designed to provide the best spot to learn and interact with their fellow cadets and instructors. All of this endeavor and additions manifests the Navy leadership’s dedication to the needs of the cadets as the PMA continues to mold young minds and strengthen the character of the young to lead this country in the future.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Saturday, 27 March 2010
In observance of the military’s time-honored tradition of rendering Testimonial Parade and Review to its alumnus who has distinguished himself in the profession of arms and has rendered faithful and dedicated service, the Philippine Military Academy honors one of its outstanding alumni, Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy on 27 March 2010 Saturday at the Academy’s hallowed grounds. The honors to be afforded to the Navy Chief is PMA’s fitting tribute to this seasoned sailor, adroit skipper, and excellent leader that earned for himself the esteemed admiration of the 20,000 strong sailors, marines, and civilian employees of the Philippine Navy.
A member of PMA Class of 1976, Admiral Golez assumed as the 30th Flag Officer In Command in August of 2008 and commenced his advocacies for naval prominence, strengthening of the Navy’s core competency, and leadership by example. These advocacies have revitalized the Navy’s performance of its traditional military role of defense and security, but has also made the Navy take an active role in its non-traditional role of peoples partner in nation-building.. With his sterling leadership, he paved the way to the acquisition of 3 Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts inaugurated in May 2009 and deployed to the different operational areas of the country in July 2009 as the Navy’s contribution to the AFP’s ISO campaign.
Vice Admiral Golez entered the Philippine Military Academy in 1972 and graduated in 1976, ranked 19th in a field of 72, most of whom joined the Army and the now-defunct Philippine Constabulary. He was among the 11 cadets who joined the Navy. He formally started his professional career in the Philippine Navy as the Deck and Gunnery Officer of RPS South Cotabato (LT87), his first shipboard assignment in 1976. He earned the most coveted Command-at-Sea badge through his stint as the Commanding Officer of three different types of PN vessels namely: BRP Bagong Silang (PG 102), BRP Miguel Malvar (PS 19) and BRP Quezon (PS70).
The Vice Admiral is not only a seasoned sailor who has successfully commanded three ships, but is a well-rounded military officer who held key posts in the fields of intelligence, operations, and education and training. He also served as Commander of two naval commands- Eastern Mindanao based in Davao City and Southern Luzon based in Legazpi, Albay. He also served as the commander of the Naval Intelligence and Security Force and concurrently as the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Intelligence (N2).
His military education and training is complemented by the schooling and instruction he received from civilian training institutions here and abroad, an experience that honed his skills and talents. He attended the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, USA were he completed his Naval Command and Staff Course. Having served the military institution for 38 years, Vice Admiral Golez has received various awards and commendations.
In November 2009, the Republic of Indonesia conferred the Bintang Jalasena Utama (Indonesian Navy Star, 1st Class) to VADM Golez, an award conferred by the Indonesian President based on the proposal from the commandant of the Indonesian Navy. He was cited for his “invaluable services rendered in the improvement and strengthening of a good joint cooperation with the Government of Republic of Indonesia in general, and National Military Navy of both countries in particular.”
After the ceremony, the Navy Chief will preside over the inauguration of the Navy Laboratory, Navy wardroom, and the Fleet-Marine classrooms for the PMA cadets courtesy of the Philippine Navy command. The Navy laboratory is a mock-up replica of the main control room of a Philippine Navy vessel called “bridge”, purposely constructed and developed to give the Navy cadets the hands-on experience of what it will be like to be a real Sailor. This prototype bridge is equipped with the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities for the Navy cadets to be abreast of the modern technology being utilized aboard ship. The Navy wardroom is also conceptualized to provide a space and the legroom for the Navy officers and cadets to interact and bond with their comrades, enjoy a sumptuous meal or a place to just sit back and relax. While the Fleet-Marine classroom is a first of its kind, specifically designed to provide the best spot to learn and interact with their fellow cadets and instructors. All of this endeavor and additions manifests the Navy leadership’s dedication to the needs of the cadets as the PMA continues to mold young minds and strengthen the character of the young to lead this country in the future.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Three Marines Among Outstanding Soldiers Honored by Metrobank and Ayala
In expression of its appreciation and gratitude to the selfless sacrifice of the soldiers, Metrobank Foundation Inc and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro continue to recognize the soldiers’s contribution through the Ten Outstanding Philippine Soldiers (TOPS) 2010. Three awardees each from the Navy, Army, Air Force, and one from the technical service received their trophies from President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during the ceremonies in Malacanang on 04 March 2010. Joining them is Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto Sobrepeña.
By: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Thursday, 25 March 2010
Three members of the Philippine Marine Corps who were instrumental in the successful operations against lawless elements in the South and communist insurgents were among the Ten Outstanding Philippine Soldiers of (TOPS) 2010. The three, together with the seven other awardees from the Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, and the Technical Service were conferred their respective awards by President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo at the Malacañang Palace on 04 March 2010 before the AFP’s top brass, defense officials, and the awardees’ families and relatives.
The Marine awardees were Lieutenant Colonel Nathaniel Y Casem, Technical Sergeant Marcelo G Batingan, and Sergeant Vicente S Sustiverio, Jr. The Philippine Army and Philippine Air Force have three awardees each while the Technical Service has one. The selection of the 10 from an original pool of 85 nominees, the Search’s highest to date, were based from each individual’s exemplary performance, contributions to the service, and involvement in humanitarian and civic action projects.
Lt Col Casem took an active role in the combat operations against the rogue elements of the Moro National Liberation Front- Misuari Breakaway Group (MNLF-MBG). The operation led to the capture of the MNLF-MBG main camp in Panamao, Sulu in April 2007. In November 2006, he led an elite group of Marines which he trained, in neutralizing ASG elements in Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi. The operation resulted to the death of three ASG members and recovery of three high-powered firearms and assorted ammunition. Lt Col Casem also introduced the use of a pair of 6-volt rechargeable batteries as a power supply for PRC-77 tactical radios that can last for a week of operations and can be recharged for succeeding operations.
TSgt Batingan was a member of MBLT-4 that successfully launched an all-out war against the MILF- Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF) in Kauswagan, Lanao Del Norte. Tsgt Batingan directed and led his squad to move towards the enemies’ position and provided suppressive volume of fire that paved the way for advancing troops to neutralize and destroy the enemy. The operation resulted to the capture and control of the satellite camp from the remnants of the MILF’s 303rd Brigade and cleared the area of the presence of MILF rebels.
Sgt Sustiverio’s vast experience in the field of intelligence led to the solution of 17 high-profile robbery/hold-up cases in 2008 and the neutralization of the Waray-Waray and Ozamis OCG, recovery of critical firepower an mobility assets, and uncovering their financiers. He was also among those awarded for his pursuit of socio-economic development during the entire conduct of intelligence operations against blast fishing in Manila Bay. This culminated to a series of successful counteraction operations with the NBI, BFAR, Naval Special Operations Group, and the 202nd Naval Reserve Squadron, and subsequently, to the apprehension of a bigtime supplier of illegal chemical component for explosives in NCR and adjoining provinces, and homemade explosives used for blast fishing.
The Search for TOPS, now on its 15th year, is an annual undertaking of the Metrobank Foundation, Inc and the Rotary Club of Makati Metro that honors the career achievements of the AFP. It has already named 116 awardees. “The Search for TOPS is our way of showing appreciation for the sacrifices of the men and women of the Armed Forces to protect the Filipino nation,” Metrobank Foundation President Aniceto Sobrepeña said.
This year’s roster of judges that included leaders from private and government sectors was chaired by Supreme Court Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio. During the final judging process, Justice Carpio said, “ I’ve always had a high regard for our military, but after interviewing them and talking to these soldiers, I even had a higher regard for the military.” “These people are very patriotic, very dedicated, and they strive to do their best in performing their job. It’s really very enlightening to meet them,” he added.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Thai Navy Ships on Goodwill Visit to the Philippines
By: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Two ships of the Royal Thai Navy - HTMS TAKSIN and HTMS CHAOPRAYA are set to arrive in the Philippines today, 24 March 2010 for a five-day goodwill visit. The delegation headed by Squadron Commander Rear Admiral Kraisorn Chansuvanich, Royal Thai Cadet Training Unit’s Commander is composed of 70 officers, 239 enlisted men, 20 non-military rank personnel, and 236 naval cadets. The ships are commanded by Capt Samarn Khunthaphong and Capt Skye Bekanan. The Philippine Navy’s BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS36) will meet and escort the visiting ships in the vicinity of Corregidor Island, a time-honored tradition among navies.
Shortly after their arrival, the head of the delegation will pay a courtesy call to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy at the Navy Headquarters in Roxas Blvd. The head of the Thai delegation will also lead the wreathlaying ceremony at the Luneta Park. Officers and personnel of the two navies will also see action during sports activities at the Jurado Hall, Naval Station Jose Francisco, Taguig City.
Slated in the next few days is a shipboard tour and familiarization of students from the Fleet Training Center, Cavite City. The Philippine Navy sees this as an opportunity for its students to optimize learning aboard state-of-the-art vessels now that PN is about to jumpstart its own modernization. The goodwill visit is also a good avenue to discuss with our Thai counterparts the possibilities for closer linkages such as mutual visits, exchange of subject matter experts and research analysts, and other similar activities that would contribute to a mutually beneficial relationship between the Philippine and Thai armed forces in the area of defense/military research.
The goodwill visit also gives opportunity for the Philippine Navy to strengthen ties with its Thai counterparts as both countries are working together in the common pursuit of maintaining peace and stability in the ASEAN region. It’s also a good venue to reiterate their commitment in combating terrorism and transnational crimes at sea, concerns which require a cooperative response among nations.
PRESS ADVISORY: Goodwill Visit of Two (2) Royal Thai Navy Ships to the Philippines
By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
WHO: Royal Thai Navy
WHAT: Goodwill Visit of Two (2) Royal Thai Navy Ships to the Philippines
WHEN: 24-28 March 2010
WHERE: Manila, Philippines
DETAILS:
Two ships from the Royal Thai Navy- HTMS TAKSIN and HTMS CHAOPHRAYA will arrive in Manila for a goodwill visit on 24-28 March 2010. The ships are expected to dock at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila at 12:00 today, 24 March 2010. The delegation is headed by Squadron Commander Rear Admiral Kraisorn Chansuvanich, Royal Thai Cadet Training Unit’s Commander. The ships are commanded by Capt Samarn Khunthaphong and Capt Skye Bekanan with a complement of 70 officers, 239 enlisted men, 20 non-military rank personnel, and 236 naval cadets.
The head of the delegation will pay a courtesy call to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy at the Navy Headquarters today at 1 p.m. The delegation will proceed to the Luneta Park for the wreathlaying ceremony. The two navies will also see action in a number of sports activities at the Jurado Hall, Naval Station Jose Francisco, Taguig City.
Friends from the media are invited to cover the events. You may coordinate with
LTJG MARINETH R DOMINGO PN at mobile telephone number (0917) 817-1434 for additional information and other concerns.
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
WHO: Royal Thai Navy
WHAT: Goodwill Visit of Two (2) Royal Thai Navy Ships to the Philippines
WHEN: 24-28 March 2010
WHERE: Manila, Philippines
DETAILS:
Two ships from the Royal Thai Navy- HTMS TAKSIN and HTMS CHAOPHRAYA will arrive in Manila for a goodwill visit on 24-28 March 2010. The ships are expected to dock at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila at 12:00 today, 24 March 2010. The delegation is headed by Squadron Commander Rear Admiral Kraisorn Chansuvanich, Royal Thai Cadet Training Unit’s Commander. The ships are commanded by Capt Samarn Khunthaphong and Capt Skye Bekanan with a complement of 70 officers, 239 enlisted men, 20 non-military rank personnel, and 236 naval cadets.
The head of the delegation will pay a courtesy call to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy at the Navy Headquarters today at 1 p.m. The delegation will proceed to the Luneta Park for the wreathlaying ceremony. The two navies will also see action in a number of sports activities at the Jurado Hall, Naval Station Jose Francisco, Taguig City.
Friends from the media are invited to cover the events. You may coordinate with
LTJG MARINETH R DOMINGO PN at mobile telephone number (0917) 817-1434 for additional information and other concerns.
PHOTO RELEASE
By: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office
Members of the elite Force Reconnaissance Company of the Philippine Marine Corps rushed to their respective vehicle during the send off ceremony Monday, 22 March 2010 at the Headquarters Philippine Navy. They will be deployed to Basilan to support law-enforcement actions against lawless elements operating in the said province. The send-off of the Philippine Navy vessels and marine personnel is in line with the guidance of AFP Chief of Staff General Delfin N Bangit to get the remaining members of the Abu Sayyaf Group within 60 days.
Six patrol vessels and gunboats of the Philippine Navy that will be deployed to operational areas specifically in Visayas and Mindanao are moored in Commodore Divino Pier at the Navy Headquarters in Roxas Boulevard, Manila. The send-off of the vessels and marine personnel was held 7:30 a.m. Monday, 22 March 2010 in line with the guidance of AFP Chief of Staff General Delfin N Bangit to get the remaining members of the Abu Sayyaf Group within 60 days.
Officers and men of BRP Apolinario Mabini (PS 36) board their ship after the send-off ceremony Monday, 22 March 2010 at the Headquarters Philippine Navy. PS 36 is one of the six Navy ships that will be deployed to operational areas specifically in Visayas and Mindanao. The send-off of the vessels and marine personnel is in line with the guidance of AFP Chief of Staff General Delfin N Bangit to get the remaining members of the Abu Sayyaf Group within 60 days.