The Philippine Navy already relinquished command of a multinational counter-piracy task force during a change-of-command ceremony on Tuesday, January 23 at the U.S. Navy base here.
Philippine Navy Captain Mateo Carido turned-over his duties and responsibilities as the Commander of CTF 151 to Brazilian Navy Rear Adm. Antonio Braz de Souza.
The Philippine Navy Team composed of Seven Officers headed by Capt. Carido took the helm of CTF 151 from the Republic of Korea Navy on August 21, 2023. They were supported by officers and enlisted personnel from different Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) member countries like Australia, Brazil, Bahrain, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, South Korea, Spain, Singapore, Thailand, and Turkey.
During his remarks, Capt. Carido highlighted some of the accomplishments of the CTF 151 and their experiences.
“With these humble accomplishments of the CTF 151, on behalf of the Philippine Navy, we would like to express our sincerest gratitude for the trust and confidence you have given us.
To my team, thank you so much for your dedication and full support to the Philippine led CTF 151, indeed, we are ready, together!”
The CMF Deputy Commander, Commo. Mark Anderson, Royal Navy was the presiding officer, he acknowledged and lauded the accomplishments of the Philippine Navy led CTF 151 whose tenure has been marked with achievements and outstanding contributions to the CMF.
“Capt. Carido, you have led an exceptional task force staff with utmost dedication. Your team has served with great professionalism and skill in enhancing key relationship by strengthening ties with international organizations and the global shipping industry.” Commo Anderson said.
He also expressed his confidence to the incoming Brazilian Navy led CTF 151 to contribute significantly to the accomplishment of the CMF mission.
The Commander of Fleet Marine Ready Force, Philippine Marine, Brig. General Edwin Amadar, also attended the event as the representative of the Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci, Jr.
Also, in attendance, the Philippine Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, Her Excellency Anne Jalando-on Louis and other distinguished Filipino visitors.
CTF 151 is one of five operational task forces under Combined Maritime Forces, a multi-national naval partnership of 39 nations, which promotes security, stability and prosperity across approximately 3.2 million square miles of international waters, encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.
