Tuesday, May 31, 2016

New WESCOM chief to meet maritime challenges decisively, vigilantly

From the Philippine News Agency (May 31): New WESCOM chief to meet maritime challenges decisively, vigilantly

Newly-appointed Western Command (WESCOM) head Rear Admiral Ronald Joseph Mercado assured that daunting maritime challenges in the country will be met decisively and vigilantly.

“The maritime issues on these waters pose as a challenge to this Command that will be met with the right balance of vigilance, capability-building, and active engagement with our counterparts,” he said.

Included in the WESCOM's area-of-operations are portions of the West Philippine Sea which the Philippines is disputing possession with China.

"The task of maintaining peace and security in WESCOM’s terrestrial jurisdiction and securing the maritime interests of our country in the Western Philippines are both big challenges,” he added.

“I know the task is daunting but...the responsibility bestowed upon me today, I am confident, will be one of the proudest moments of my career... The confidence I carry now as I assume as the Commander, WESCOM is not just based on my capacity as a leader and commander, but on the confidence I have to the men and women who are with me in my new job -- the men and women of all ranks and rates who fearlessly guard our lands, man our ships and fly our planes,” Mercado stressed.

In the same vein, the newly-appointed WESCOM chief vowed to follow through the established plans and thrusts in strengthening our security posture, and to be prepared to deploy forces whenever and wherever they are needed.

“We will retain our long-term perspective on this area in accordance wit the policies and guidance of higher headquarters and the national government... WESCOM will keep the spirit of 'Bayanihan' burning with the Armed Forces as catalyst for peace and security,” he added.

Mercado replaced Marine Brig. Gen. Elvin Hermogino was who serving as acting WESCOM commander since last April 29 following the retirement of Vice Admiral Alexander Lopez.

The former is the head of the Philippine Fleet which is based in Sangley Point, Cavite. He is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Class of 1993.

As this develops, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said Mercado will retain command of the Philippine Fleet until his replacement is identified and appointed.

"Rear Admiral Mercado has served with distinction and has had a very colorful and progressive military career. He is considered to be among the most seasoned officers in the PN. Prior to his last two significant positions and assignments, Rear Admiral Mercado has had stints in varied command and staff positions in the Navy and the AFP General Headquarters. He has also earned his Command at Sea badge," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=890353

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.