President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday assured the Philippine Navy of his continued support in enhancing their capability against internal and external threats through modernization.
In his speech, the President also urged members of the Philippine Navy to support the leadership of the new flag-officer-in-command Rear Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, as he expressed gratitude to retired Admiral Robert Empedrad for his “successful tour of duty.”
“Let me assure you that you will have my full support and this administration will always assist in enhancing the capabilities of the men and women of the Philippine Navy as we pursue a more peaceful future for all,” President Duterte said.
He also expressed confidence in the leadership of Bacordo in protecting the “freedoms and democratic values” of the country.
“Admiral Bacordo, I am confident that our Navy under your leadership will continue to achieve more milestones in the campaign to protect the freedoms and democratic values that we hold dear,” Duterte said during the change of command rites at the Philippine Navy Headquarters in Manila.
“It is my hope you will become the embodiment of integrity and valor as you lead your Navy in securing the seas and the future of our land,” he added.
Bacordo has been a commander of the Philippine Fleet since April 2019. He was a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Hinirang” Class of 1987.
Duterte also thanked Empedrad for his more than three decades of professional career in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, saying the naval presence of the country has increased under his leadership.
“Your most recent efforts in spearheading humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations for our compatriots working in Iran and those affected by the eruption of Taal Volcano vividly attest to your faithful adherence to military professionalism and selfless dedication to duty,” Duterte said.