Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista announces the appointment of CG VICE ADMIRAL RONNIE GIL LATORILLA GAVAN as the 30th Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant during the Change of Command Ceremony at the National Headquarters, Port Area, Manila, today, 19 October 2023.

In his speech, the Transportation Secretary expressed his trust and confidence that CG Vice Admiral Gavan would efficiently lead the PCG in implementing the "White Hull Approach" towards upholding maritime security and safety in the country's exclusive economic zones.

"Admiral Art was hailed for his innate peace mindset that steered the country away from any deterioration in the volatile situation at the West Philippine Sea," DOTr Secretary Bautista said.

"My belief that Vice Admiral Ronnie Gavan will do the same is anchored on his record of shifting to the 'White Hull Approach' when securing our maritime borders and his introduction of female radio operators, called 'Angels of the Sea,' as a way of diffusing tension during sea conflict," he furthered.

Moreover, the Transportation Secretary emphasized President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr's directives to the PCG during its 122nd founding anniversary as it moved forward to provide better public service to the Filipino nation.

"I expect the PCG to provide steadfast service and dedication to duty during times of calamity; uphold our country's maritime security and promote our maritime rights; do its part in fighting smuggling; protect our marine environment; and secure the safety of our fishermen when pursuing their means of livelihood," DOTr Secretary Bautista highlighted.

"The Department of Transportation firmly stands with you in your plans and efforts to improve, expand, and modernize your capabilities and services so you can level up your efforts at securing the welfare of our people and our nation," he concluded.

The Chief Executive chose CG Vice Admiral Gavan among five recommended candidates to take over the Coast Guard helm following the retirement of CG Admiral Artemio Abu after over 35 years of public service on the same date.

Before the said appointment, CG Vice Admiral Gavan served as the PCG's Deputy Commandant for Administration.

He was also instrumental in training and capacity-building female Coast Guardians as radio operators dubbed "Angels of the Sea" on board PCG vessels patrolling the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The 30th PCG Commandant is a proud member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Maalab Class of 1993.