Speech by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. at the Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony in Honor of Vice Admiral Toribio D. Adaci Jr.

Thank you to our National Defense Secretary, Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. [Please be seated.]

Presidential Adviser on Military and Police Affairs Roman Felix; and a new arrival, Senator JV Ejercito, who has come to join us today; Philippine National Police Chief General Rommel Marbil; immediate past Philippine Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr.; the newly installed Philippine Navy Flag Officer-in-Command Rear Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta; officers and enlisted personnel of the Philippine Navy; fellow workers in government; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen, good morning.

We gather here today to celebrate the career of Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. as he concludes his tour of duty as the 40th Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy.

Let me highlight the contributions of a leader who has made a mark on everyone who had the privilege of working with him.

Vice Admiral Adaci has devoted most of his life to safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty and our maritime interests.

He took the helm in 2022 amid a very challenging time, yet he remained driven by his resolve towards developing a modern and multi-capable naval force.

His commitment, leadership, and vision has significantly strengthened our naval capabilities and enhanced our readiness to face the rapidly evolving challenges of today.

He was exactly what this country needed: mild-mannered and calm.

His presence of mind was unshakeable despite provocations and attempts to escalate tensions.

It is through his leadership that we remain firm in asserting our rights in the maritime domain while keeping to our responsibility of safeguarding lives and promoting regional peace and stability.

Under his command, the Philippine Navy has achieved countless milestones. I am certain that there is a long list of commendable accomplishments but allow me to just enumerate a few:

He spearheaded modernization efforts that have equipped our naval forces with advanced assets and technologies.

These enhancements have bolstered our defense posture and improved our ability for humanitarian assistance and disaster response—now a critical role in our archipelagic nation.

He has also championed regional cooperation and partnership by fostering ties with our allies and neighbors and by promoting collaborative efforts towards peace and stability in our maritime zones.

Aside from improving operations, Vice Admiral Adaci sought to strengthen the Philippine Navy as an institution, lifting the morale of all officers, troops, and civilian personnel.

He is attuned to the needs of his people. He supported their training, their growth, and welfare, ensuring that the women and men of the Philippine Navy remain professional and capable of heeding the call of duty.

I also wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation to his family. They have endured the challenges that accompanied the demanding nature of a uniformed personnel. Their support has been instrumental in inspiring him to serve our country better.

Vice Admiral Adaci, you leave behind substantial reports of your legacy. Even though not everyone will have the opportunity to read them, those words will come alive in the stories shared by those who served with you.

On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you for your exemplary and passionate service. We wish you fair winds and following seas as you embark onto your next journey.

Thus, we turn a new leaf as we welcome the new Flag Officer-in-Command, Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta.

Having worked with the FOIC closely, you can attest to the standard he has set for the institution. I expect the same, if not greater, from your leadership.

As Vice Admiral Adaci has demonstrated, your predecessors are always difficult acts to follow, but given your competence, your experience, and mental fortitude, I am confident you will continue to lead the Navy with integrity and surpass any challenges that you might confront.

I look forward to working with you and I give you my full support as you build on your legacy.

Let us work together as we steer the future in the right direction for a more secure, advanced, and prosperous Bagong Pilipinas.

Thank you very much!

Mabuhay ang Hukbong Dagat ng Pilipinas!

Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas! [applause]

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