The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) congratulates its 19 sponsored cadets who were part of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) "SINAGLAKAN" Class of 2021.

The PMMA, led by Superintendent, Commodore Joel Y Abutal, held its 201st commencement exercises at the PMMA Complex in San Narciso, Zambales yesterday, 28 July 2021.

Gracing the event via virtual modality, PCG Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr expressed his assurance that the graduates, most especially the PCG-sponsored cadets, are more than ready to provide the best service to the country and the world.

"I encourage all of you to look for the best interest of human welfare and our marine environment. As you embrace the standards and traditions in the maritime field and adopt to modern technologies, make sure to utilize these and become agents of change and continued development," Admiral Ursabia said.

"Your ideals as new graduates will be challenged with reality, but continue to press on until you see your dream become a reality," the Coast Guard Commandant added.

During the event, M/1CL MONA CATHERINE MANUTA also received the COAST GUARD SABER AWARD for being the TOP-PERFORMING STUDENT among PCG – PMMA cadets, Class of 2021.

The 19 PCG-sponsored cadets, who composed the 8th batch of the PCG – PMMA Cadetship and Scholarship Program, graduated with bachelor's degrees in marine engineering and/or marine transportation.

Before concluding the commencement exercises, the PCG-sponsored cadets took oath as Coast Guard commissioned officers with the rank of “Probationary Ensign”.

Also gracing the graduation ceremony were Deputy Commandant for Administration, Vice Admiral Eduardo D Fabricante; Commodore Eustacio Nimrod P Enriquez Jr, Commander of the Coast Guard Education, Training and Doctrine Command; and members of the Office of Deputy Chief of Coast Guard Staff for Education and Training.