The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has accorded a Skipper’s Farewell Cruise Ceremony for Maritime Security and Law Enforcement Command Deputy Commander, CG Rear Admiral Normando D Reyes in honor of his accomplishments and contributions during his assignment aboard ship at Pier 13, Port Area, Manila on 02 February 2022.

CG Rear Admiral Reyes will be retiring on 08 February 2022 after more than 35 years of public service.

He earned the most coveted COMMAND AT SEA BADGE after successfully commanding several PCG and DA-BFAR ships, including DA-BFAR MCS-3008, DA-BFAR MCS-3005, BRP Romblon (SARV-3503), and MMOV-5002.

During his speech, CG Rear Admiral Reyes expressed how deeply honored he was for the warm welcome and careful preparation of the men and women of the Coast Guard Fleet, leading to the smooth and successful conduct of the ceremony.

After sharing the knowledge and wisdom he gained during more than eight years of sea duty tour, the honoree urged PCG officers and vessel crew to always seek guidance from and thank the Almighty God before departing on missions.

The Skipper's Farewell Cruise Ceremony emphasized the participation of his oceanic majesty King Neptune as the Presiding Officer, graced by his wife, Queen Amphitrite, the King’s Herald, and Davy Jones played by the crew of BRP Batangas (SARV-5605) and the Coast Guard Fleet personnel. The concept and characters were based on the ceremonial Equator-Crossing tradition for shellbacks.

Coast Guard Fleet Commander, CG Rear Admiral Allan Victor T Dela Vega presided over the said ceremony that began when CG Captain Roderik M Elioran reported to the honoree the readiness of the BRP Batangas (SARV-5605) to proceed at sea.

Thereafter, CG Rear Admiral Reyes commanded and maneuvered the ship from Pier 13 to Manila Bay and back.

While underway, King Neptune summoned the honoree for the ceremonial awarding of the “IMPERIVM NEPTVNI REGIS” certificate for his sterling accomplishments as a PCG skipper.

A certificate of “WIFE EMERITUS” was also awarded to Mrs. Rosie P Reyes for carrying out her duties to CG Rear Admiral Reyes which was received by the honoree on her behalf.

Afterward, CG Rear Admiral Dela Vega led the ceremonial toast which marked the conclusion of the ceremony.

[Photos by CG ASN Reymond M Sumer and CG ASN Archel P Albania of the Coast Guard Public Affairs]