The Naval Forces West (NFW) celebrated its 42nd years of service in protecting the western frontier, highlighting its accomplishments in guarding the peace and security of Palawan and the nine island detachments and stations in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), Thursday, at the Naval Station Carlito Cunanan (NSCC) in Barangay Macarascas.
Vice Admiral Robert Empedrad, the flag-officer-in-command of the Philippine Navy, who served as the guest of honor and speaker, recognized the accomplishments and services rendered of the soldiers particularly in protecting the last frontier.
“I am proud to note that through stringent monitoring and proper utilization of Fleet-Marine assets, you have zealously protected our last frontier, our country’s claims and the whole province of Palawan and I take pride in knowing that every Sailor, Marine, and civilian personnel continue to live up to excellence of this unit,” Empedrad said in his speech.
Empedrad also handed the military medals and plaque of recognition to soldiers and other stakeholders, including the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park and the management office of the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park.
“I am happy for the trust and confidence of your stakeholders in the NFW that only show and manifest that NFW is a dependable guardian and protector of the entire province of Palawan,” he said.
He also commended the soldiers who guard the Kalayaan Group of Islands despite the “challenging task”.
“Our soldiers who guard the islands and shoal that we are claiming in Kalayaan Group of Islands 24/7, no matter how challenging the task is,” he said.
“All these years, the 42 years of selfless and dedicated service showed how we perform our duty to protect and secure Palawan and the West Philippine Sea. I can proudly say that what is ours is really ours through the efforts of sailors, marines and stakeholders. Today, I thank you all for your assistance to fulfil our mandated task,” Commodore Sean Anthony Villa, NFW commander said.
Palawan Governor Jose Chavez-Alvarez, Western Commander Vice Admiral Rene Medina, and other officials of Palawan and Puerto Princesa City graced the event.
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