Thank you to our Transportation Secretary, Secretary Jimmy Bautista. [Please take your seats.]

The Excellencies of the Diplomatic Corps who I see are here today, all present and correct; also I’d like to greet Senator Francis Tolentino who has always been a great supporter of our men in uniform; the Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Artemio Abu; the officers, enlisted personnel, and awardees of the Philippine Coast Guard Anniversary Awards, my congratulations; fellow workers in government; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon.

Today, we celebrate the rich legacy of the Philippine Coast Guard as we mark its 122nd Founding Anniversary.
It is a good time to congratulate the gallant men and women of our Tanod Baybayin for reaching another milestone in the long and illustrious service of our Coast Guard.

Let me first offer my profound appreciation on behalf of a grateful nation to the PCG for providing steadfast service and dedication to duty during times of calamity; for upholding our country’s maritime security and promoting our maritime rights; for fighting against the entry of smuggled goods; for protecting our marine environment and for securing the safety of our fisherfolk as they pursue their means of livelihood.

Your integrity, your discipline, and professionalism in the performance of your mandate have helped us further our collective vision of a stronger, more harmonious, and more resilient Philippines.

The Philippine Coast Guard remained steadfast in assuming a pivotal role in our continued promotion and protection of our country’s sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction and in being at the forefront of our efforts to ensure that our fishers and their fishing rights are respected and recognized throughout our vast maritime areas. All these efforts by the Philippine Coast Guard, while spearheading our marine environment protection and conservation efforts and ensuring the safety and welfare of all those who ply our waters, are deeply appreciated.

Suffice to say, your accomplishments in the performance of your duty have consistently championed our country and our people’s rights and welfare in the face of daunting adversity and difficulties. Despite all the challenges, the Coast Guard has unwaveringly answered the call of duty.

For all of these and for more, I thank you.

As we embark on a new chapter, I enjoin all of you to continue to work closely with other concerned agencies as you perform this extremely valuable and important mandate.

Be assured that this administration firmly stands with you in your plans and efforts to improve, expand, and modernize the capabilities and services, so that you may better contribute to the security and welfare of our people and of the nation.

Together, let us consolidate and harness our strengths to ensure that every Filipino can reap the gains of our endeavors as well as lead more productive and dignified lives.

Let us sail together in unity and harmony towards a more empowered, progressive, and sustainable future.

Once again, congratulations to the Philippine Coast Guard on your 122nd Founding Anniversary!

Mabuhay ang Tanod Baybayin ng Pilipinas! Maraming salamat po. [applause]

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Watch here: 122nd Philippine Cost Guard Founding Anniversary
Location: Pier 15, South Harbor in Port Area, Manila