Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, Admiral George V Ursabia Jr welcomed a total of 108 newly-commissioned officers, composed of six Lieutenants and 102 Ensigns, after successfully finishing the Coast Guard Officer's Course (CGOC) held at the PCG Training Centers in Bagac, Bataan and Taguig, Metro Manila.

"This is a great blessing from God Almighty, not only for you, but also for the Coast Guard. He chose each and every one of you to be His instruments in coursing His greatness to the people we serve. The process you had been through was God's way of identifying the right people to perform such task," Admiral Ursabia said during the oath-taking ceremony held at the National Headquarters, Port Area, Manila yesterday, 01 February 2021.

"Now that you are here, I expect you to maximize this blessing. Start now and start right. Have strong faith in God and allow Him to guide you in serving the people," he added.

Moreover, the Coast Guard Commandant further explained that starting now meant actively participating in the fulfillment of the Coast Guard mandate and in addressing existing issues for the growth of the organization.

Furthermore, starting right, Admiral Ursabia shared, is about delivering public service with humility and compassion — embodying patriotism, compassion, and fear of God which are virtues of genuine Coast Guardians.

"Because majority of us came from financially-challenged families, our application in the Coast Guard was motivated by the desire to have better lives. However, I want you to know that you are here to become God's ambassadors in serving others for this is the essence of the uniformed service. The compensation will eventually follow," Admiral Ursabia exclaimed.

To conclude, the Coast Guard Admiral urged the newly-commissioned officers to always express prayers of gratitude for all the blessings they receive; the opportunity to serve others through the PCG; and the bright future that awaits them as they advance in the Coast Guard service.