New Navy chief vows stronger presence in Phl seas

Newly designated Philippine Navy chief Rear Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta has vowed to sustain and further strengthen military might and presence at sea as part of efforts to deter attempts to subvert the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

- By MICHAEL PUNONGBAYAN

"Surely there are rough seas that we may be sailing through in the future. When those moments come, it is our relentless commitment and our steadfast duty that will allow us to stay on course and remain full speed ahead, to act in concert to defend our national interests, protect our people and safeguard our waters. Let us all work together toward the same goal," he said in his assumption speech yesterday.

Ezpeleta, who officially replaced Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. as Philippine Navy chief in a change of command ceremony attended by President Marcos along with Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., did not specifically mention China and the West Philippine Sea.