Navy All Set for La Niña

By: LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

28 May 2010

With the early onset of the rainy season, the Philippine Navy is all set to deploy men and equipment to flood-prone areas in all parts of the country. The Navy has a pre-organized, pre-planned, and pre-equipped rescue teams integrated in all naval units to reach out to needy citizens when calamities and disasters strike.

Gaining from its experience during the onslaught of Typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng” last year, the Navy has strengthened its disaster response operations in four areas: equipage, command and control, training, and coordination. During its 112th Anniversary celebration this month, the Navy presented to PGMA its newly-procured Disaster Response Operations (DRO) Equipment that speaks of the Navy’s readiness and preparedness when called for action as the Navy’s 112th Anniversary theme proudly proclaims: “Naval Dominance for 7,107 Philippine Islands”.

The DRO Equipment consist of the trailer, rubber boat (10-man capacity with 40 HP OBM), and other life-saving gear. Also included is an improvised rubber boat made of indigenous materials from plastic drums and metal. The boat which is virtually unsinkable can load more than 4 times compared to an ordinary rubber boat and costs P60,000.00, unlike an ordinary rubber boat that costs P600,000.00.

On 26 May 2010, a team from the Navy’s BRP Magat Salamat (PS 20) composed of an officer and 7 enlisted personnel was dispatched to Brgy Bulalo, Sultan Kudarat to assist in the evacuation of residents affected by floods in Eastern Mindanao. The team augmented the Army’s 1st IB that was dispatched to the area after continuous torrential rains had caused the Mindanao River Basin to swell and caused the flash floods. Though there was no actual rescue operation since the floodwater had subsided, the Navy team is on standby aboard BRP Magat Salamat (PS 20) which is moored in Polloc Wharf, Parang, Maguindanao.

Meanwhile, the leadership of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon based in Poro Pt, La Union conducted on 19 May 2010 a Disaster Response Workshop to enhance the DRO capability of AFP units in the Northern Luzon region. Representatives from the PAG-ASA, Coast Guard, Office of Civil Defense, and PDCC Region-1 attended the one-day activity aimed to organize and enhance interoperability among disaster units involved in disaster response operations.

Being the citizen’s vital partner in peace, progress, and development, the Navy’s expanded role has encompassed search and rescue operations during calamities and disasters. The Navy has recognized its emerging role as disaster responder and agents of rehabilitation from calamities that frequent our country. For any emergency, the Navy will always be ready to respond, which gives impetus to the Navy to enhance and sustain its disaster response readiness program.





SIR, DISASTER RESPONSE UNITS, MANNED AND READY

Personnel and equipment prepare to launch in a ceremony during the Navy’s 112th Anniversary celebration on 11 May 2010. PGMA witnessed this preparedness during the anniversary rites at the Navy Headquarters that speaks of the Navy’s readiness and preparedness when called to action as the theme proudly proclaims: “Naval Dominance for 7,107 Philippine Islands”. The DRO Equipment consists of the trailer, rubber boat (10-man capacity with 40 HP OBM), and other life-saving gear. Also included in the inventory of DRO Equipment is an improvised rubber boat made of indigenous materials that can load more rescuers and costs less compared to an ordinary rubber boat.

Acting Navy Chief Outlines Plans during Stint

BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

21 May 2010

Rear Admiral Danilo M Cortez, the acting Flag Officer In Command of the Philippine Navy vowed to continue the initiatives set by his predecessor, Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez who retired from active military service on 15 May 2010. During the command conference he presided at the Navy Headquarters on the 17th of May linked live to all naval forces in the entire country via the Virtual Private Network, Rear Admiral Cortez reiterated to the commanders the priority areas where efforts should be channeled to in accomplishing the mission.

On Naval operations, the Rear Admiral wants the Navy to continue to institutionalize the employment of the Fleet-Marine doctrine in all aspects of naval operations and to bring an end to the problem of insurgency. He also stressed the employment of the principle of maneuver warfare to combat threat groups in the Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi areas.

On Naval intelligence, the Navy’s Coast Watch System shall be enhanced through the installation of the automatic identification system in selected stations and occupied islands in the Spratlys.

Rear Admiral Cortez also exhorted the Civil Military Operations Group (CMOG) to take an active role in helping address the concerns of the local community by engaging concerned LGUs, government agencies, and NGOs. He said that the Navy must work towards the strengthening of civil military operations while taking advantage of various opportunities with the private sector by encouraging community growth and development.

He cited the Navy’s concerted efforts in crafting a strategic communication plan to be able to better communicate the Navy’s programs and advocacies to our internal and external stakeholders in support to the Navy’s mission and vision.

To uplift the morale of twenty thousand Navy personnel and look over their welfare, Rear Admiral Cortez directed the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Personnel to pursue off-base housing initiatives to provide affordable shelter to Sailors and Marines. He likewise directed to pursue arrangements through MOA with different shipping companies for discounted fare of Sailors and Marines going on rest and recreation, as well as help the dependents of Navy personnel to avail of the privileges offered by the AFP educational benefits system.

Since funds are needed and the allocations are inadequate, He also directed to study the possibility of optimizing the utilization of the newly rehabilitated Manila Naval Hospital for income generation by allowing private medical practitioners to conduct business within the hospital complex that includes private pharmacies to open outlets for cheaper medicines.

Rear Admiral Cortez also directed the Administrator of the Real Estate Management Office to explore the possibility of utilizing real estate properties as income generating assets to support the procurement of mission essential equipment and establishment of needed facilities.

He also wants the Navy to vigorously pursue initiatives and relentlessly work further for the acquisition of the Multi-role Vessel (MRV) and directed his staff to expedite the processing of supporting documents under the Capability Upgrade Program 2009.

He enjoined all Sailors and Marines “to work together and join hands so that collectively, we can continue to sail forward and attain our dream of becoming a strong and credible navy that our maritime nation can be proud of”.

Naval Dominance through Health Fair

By: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

Thirteen government and non-government agencies will participate in a free health fair initiated by the Philippine Navy (PN) on Wednesday, 19 May 2010 8 a.m. at the PN Officers Clubhouse Ceremonial Area, Naval Station Jose Francisco, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Rear Admiral Danilo M Cortez AFP, the acting Navy Chief, will preside over the activity.

The Navy will bring together all those related with medical and health care in a one-day activity dubbed as the “Health Care Fair 2010 and Blood Letting” that will showcase various events with emphasis on health promotion and disease prevention. The fair will be undertaken through information campaign, film showing, and consultation/counseling to include performance of some diagnostic procedures for free.

Among the health booths/stations that will be put in during the fair are Healthy Lifestyle (heart and diabetes); Bone Health Awareness; Healthy Eyes Awareness; Safety Sex Life Awareness; Stress Management; Cancer Awareness (for male and female); Nutrition; Alternative Medicine; Healthy Skin; Healthy Teeth and Gums; Healthy Pet; Spiritual Enhancement; and Livelihood Products of the Philippine Navy Officer’s Wives Association (PNOWA).

The fair, with the theme “Naval Dominance through Health Maintenance of Personnel”, is part of the of the 112th Philippine Navy anniversary celebration which will benefit military personnel and their dependents.

Navy Chief Golez Bids the Navy Goodbye; Offered a DND Post

BY: LTCOL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

15 May 2010


Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, the 30th Flag Officer In Command of the Philippine Navy has retired from active military service after more than 38 years. In his retirement ceremony attended by the AFP and Navy’s top brass, DND officials, members of the diplomatic corps, members of PMA Class 1976, and family and friends, Vice Admiral Golez exhorted every personnel to pursue the Navy’s vision of becoming a strong and credible Navy by 2020 that this maritime nation can be proud of. “We have planted the seeds of dedication and commitment for our Sailors and Marines to grow and nurture collectively”, said Vice Admiral Golez during the Change of Command ceremony at the Navy Headquarters in Roxas Blvd, Manila this morning, 15 May 2010.
Since assuming post on 02 August 2008, Vice Admiral Golez’ operational strategy of naval prominence in all mission areas has provided the Philippine Navy the direction towards enhancement of capability and development of a more robust and relevant organization. This course of action is embodied in the PN Sail Plan 2020.
Taking over the command of the Philippine Navy in acting capacity is Rear Admiral Danilo Cortez, the Vice Commander of the Philippine Navy who gave his assurance that he will continue the initiatives set by his predecessor in attaining the Navy’s vision.
Giving boost to this aspiration is DND Secretary Hon Norberto Gonzales who underscored the importance of the Multi-Role Vessel (MRV) for the Philippine Navy. “It’s very important that what the Navy needs to acquire will be acquired,” stressed Gonzales who also encouraged the retiring Vice Admiral to continue his public service by joining the defense department.
The Navy hopes to acquire an MRV to enhance its territorial defense and internal security operations. The MRV can also be utilized during humanitarian missions- in reaching out to citizens in far-flung areas.
Secretary Gonzales meanwhile accepted the ceremonial petition of the outgoing Navy Chief Vice Admiral Golez to retire from the military service. But not in government service. “I am asking Vice Admiral Golez to seriously consider joining me in the Defense Department and be by our side and share his precious knowledge and experience gained in the service. To continue serving the Navy in another capacity”. It was not known whether Vice Admiral Golez accepted the offer.
Secretary Gonzales also thanked the Navy and the whole AFP for their role during the elections and vowed to become the spokesperson of the AFP in reminding the Filipino people that the AFP is the “most important pillar of the society and important in nation-building”. He added that the men and women in uniform are the symbols of this country, “who have the heart and courage to offer to the people”.

Navy Celebrates 112th Anniversary Today

May 05, 2010

BY: : LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office


The Philippine Navy celebrates today its 112th Anniversary with the theme: “Naval Dominance for 7, 107 Philippine Islands.” The celebration is marked with the launching of the Navy’s Virtual Private Network (VPN)- Video Teleconferencing, the presentation of the Navy’s Disaster Response Operations (DRO) Equipment and the newly-upgraded BRP Emilio Liwanag (PG118). Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo was the guest of honor attended by defense and AFP officials, and representatives from government and private sectors.

The Navy’s virtual private network allows faster information exchange and an improved and reliable interconnectivity among all navy units. Also taking place this morning was the presentation of the Navy’s DRO equipment that will equip the Navy’s disaster response teams in the conduct of rescue operations. The Navy leadership also presented the newly upgraded PG118 that will surely boost the Navy’s coastal patrol operations and maritime law enforcement. Highlight of the celebration was the awarding of medals and plaques to individuals and units who have shown exemplary performance in their duties.

In his opening remarks, VICE ADMIRAL FERDINAND S GOLEZ AFP, Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy cited the significance of this year’s celebration in the context of the country’s archipelagic make-up; in the development of the Philippines and its relations with its neighbors.

“We have made our Navy relevant in the fast-paced world by establishing prominence in our core business of naval defense and maritime security. Our 112th founding anniversary is a milestone that we again set sail and navigate through the sea with required enhancements, improvements, and development to make our Navy the dominant power to defend our territory and secure our posterity.”

This afternoon, the Navy Chief will lead in the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated Manila Naval Hospital that is now equipped with the modern medical technology, which can now cater to the bigger demands of Navy personnel and their dependents. The MNH will be a premier facility of the Philippine Navy that is professional, well-equipped, responsive, and able to provide excellence in medical care.

After the inauguration of the MNH, the Navy will award the keys of the newly constructed condominium units to 48 senior Fleet-Marine officers at the Naval Station Jose Francisco, Ft Bonifacio, Taguig City. The two-storey condo is among the housing facilities completed for officers and personnel under the leadership of Vice Admiral Golez.

Navy rescues students in Infanta, Quezon

By: Lieutenant Colonel Edgard A Arevalo PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office

05 May 2010

Members of the Naval Special Operations Unit 3 (NAVSOU3) of the Naval Forces Southern Luzon at 7:30AM, 05 May 2010 immediately responded to a call for help in a drowning incident in Infanta, Quezon. Fourteen were reportedly missing and feared to have drowned following a sudden rush of big waves. The prompt response of NAVSOU 3 headed by LTJG JAY T ROXAS lead to the rescue of eight students and the recovery of six bodies of the fatalities in their tedious search and rescue operations. The eight meanwhile were rushed to and are now recovering at the Claro M Recto Hospital in Manila.

The Navy’s operation is still ongoing for a missing grade 6 pupil who was reportedly missing while swimming in the beach at Brgy Pinagtapatan, Infanta. Ltjg Roxas said that the victims were taken away by the rising tide and swift current while swimming in the beach. The 14 were graduating students were from La Consolacion College, Manila who were having their vacation with 13 others.

The swift response attests to the Navy’s preparation and visibility in key areas this time of the year. In time for the summer vacation, naval units all around the country has deployed its personnel in beaches around the country to respond to any eventual