Vice Admiral Supangan assumes command of Philippine Coast Guard

MANILA — Vice Admiral Rommel Supangan officially took over as commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard on Monday, marking a leadership transition at the helm of the maritime service. Supangan replaced Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, who retired from the position after his tenure at the agency. Palace Press Secretary Claire Castro announced the appointment. President Ferdinand Marcos attended the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony held at the Coast Guard Fleet in Port Area, Manila, underscoring the significance of the transition within the maritime uniformed service. The formal ceremonial proceedings followed standard protocols for senior command transitions within the Armed Forces of the Philippines structure. As the new commandant, Supangan will oversee the Coast Guard's operations and strategic initiatives in Philippine maritime security and coastal defense operations. The appointment comes as the Philippines continues to strengthen its maritime capabilities amid regional security considerations in Southeast Asian waters.