LTGEN Fernyl Buca, PAF Commander of the Northern Luzon Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (NOLCOM AFP), graced the Inauguration of the Naval Detachment in Mavulis Island Batanes on October 18, 2023, wherein Senator Francis Tolentino, Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Philippine Maritime and Admiralty Zones served as Guest of Honor and Speaker.
The occasion marked a significant milestone in enhancing the strategic security and defense capabilities of the Philippines in the Northern Luzon region. The said Naval Detachment is poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime borders and interests.
LTGEN Buca alongside Vice Admiral Toribio D Adaci Jr, Flag Officer-in-Command (FOIC) of the Philippine Navy, and Commo Francis Tagamolila, Commander of Naval Forces Northern Luzon were warmly welcomed by Batanes Governor, Marilou Cayco.
The Commander of NOLCOM expressed his sentiments saying that “the Inauguration of the Naval Detachment in Mavulis Island, Batanes, serves as a testament to the commitment of NOLCOM and of the whole Armed Forces of the Philippines to protect and serve the nation’s interests. “
LTGEN BUCA also highlighted that “our country’s maritime borders are an integral part of our sovereignty, and that this detachment stands as a shield guarding our waters and ensuring the safety of our people. It will serve as a cornerstone in our defense infrastructure, enabling us to respond swiftly to any threats to our maritime interests.”
According to Sen Tolentino the establishment of the Naval Detachment manifests the collaborative efforts of the government, leaders, and officials, both civilian and military, dedicated to upholding the sovereignty and security of the Philippines.
Mavulis Island is the northernmost island of the Philippines and is located more than 280 kilometers off the northern coast of Luzon mainland and less than 150 kilometers from the southern tip of Taiwan.
