NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila – Philippine Navy (PN) Flag Officer In Command, Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr., conducted series of Christmas visits to sailors and marines stationed at different island detachments in the northern, western, and southern frontiers of the country this weekend.
The Navy Chief particularly set foot on Philippine far-north islands of Basco and Itbayat in Batanes; Pag-asa and Kota islands in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG); and Taganak Island in Tawi-Tawi.
Sailors and marines on the other island stations and detachments were able to attend via online platform and were able to witness and hear the Navy Chief’s Christmas message. These island stations and detachments are key and strategic features of the Philippine territory manned by dedicated PN personnel alongside other uniformed agencies, ac cording to CDR Benjo Negranza, Navy Public Affair Office chief.
The visits were conducted on a joyful note with activities like raffle draws, talent showcase, and ‘boodle fight’, uplifting morale of the troops and capturing the true essence of the Christmas Season.
Another significant aspect was the blessing of the Admin and Research Facility on Kota Island, a typhoon-resilient structure symbolizing progress and serving as shelter for personnel and equipment on the island station.
Through these visits, the Navy Chief was able to personally convey his gratitude for navy personnel serving in these remote island stations, and boost their morale with the reaffirmation of the organization’s unwavering support as they carry on with their unselfish efforts in pursuit of service to our maritime nation and as the protector of our territory and national interests, Cdr Negranza said.
This Christmas tradition underscores the Navy’s dedication and commitment to fostering a positive and supportive environment for its personnel, even in the most remote locations. It further demonstrates the command’s sincere appreciation of the dedication and sacrifice of its men and women in uniform.
