Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista has highlighted his marching orders for the 30th Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, CG Admiral Ronnie Gil L Gavan.

This occurred during the PCG's Change of Command Ceremony following the retirement of the 29th PCG Commandant, CG Admiral Artemio M Abu, at the National Headquarters, Port Area, Manila, yesterday, 19 October 2023. 

1. Advocate for GOOD GOVERNANCE characterized by competence and merit and – being a uniformed service – on discipline.

2. Observe the PROPER RELATION of the PCG to the DOTr as an attached agency. Keep in mind that DOTr remains the LEAD OF THE COUNTRY'S MARITIME ADMINISTRATION.

3. Conduct REGULAR MEETINGS AND CONSULTATIONS between PCG's senior leaders and DOTr officials.

4. Observe MODESTY AND SIMPLICITY DURING OFFICIAL FUNCTIONS while upholding the dignity of your activities.

5. Review PCG's POLICY ON PROMOTIONS.

6. Revisit PERSONNEL ASSIGNMENTS, particularly on the practice of ONE OFFICER HOLDING MULTIPLE POSTS.

7. Fasttrack PCG's ongoing MODERNIZATION PROGRAM.

8. Adopt DOTr's REVISED PROCUREMENT POLICY applicable to attached agencies that limits agency approval on certain purchases.

9. Review PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE POLICY on PCG assets.

10. Engage in the FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION with renewed conviction.

"Your integrity, discipline, and professionalism helped us further our collective vision for a stronger, more harmonious, and more resilient Philippines," DOTr Secretary Bautista said during the ceremony.

"The demands on your compounding responsibilities are increasing over the decades. This is the best time to determine what you require to fulfill your expanding responsibilities," he added.

"Under a new commandant, the PCG will be in the spotlight. The public will be watching and expecting positive changes... Remain a beacon of dedicated public service. To all Coast Guardians, stand tall... stand proud," the Transportation Secretary concluded.