(Screengrab from RTVM livestream)
MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the Philippine Navy’s change of command and retirement ceremony at the Philippine Navy Headquarters in Manila on Friday, November 13, marking a leadership transition in the country’s naval force.
Vice Admiral Alan Javier formally assumed command of the Philippine Navy, succeeding Vice Admiral Jose Maria Ambrosio Ezpeleta, who retired after nearly four decades of military service.
The ceremony marked the official transfer of leadership responsibilities to Javier as the Navy continues its efforts to strengthen maritime defense capabilities and safeguard the country’s territorial waters.
Ezpeleta relinquished his post following almost 40 years of service in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), concluding a military career dedicated to national defense and maritime security.
As the new Philippine Navy chief, Javier will oversee naval operations, personnel and modernization initiatives aimed at improving the country’s maritime security and defense readiness.
The leadership transition comes as the Philippines continues to strengthen its naval capabilities amid persistent maritime security challenges, particularly in the West Philippine Sea.
The change of command ceremony also underscored the importance of leadership continuity in maintaining the Navy’s operational readiness and supporting the AFP’s broader defense objectives.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. joined Marcos during the ceremony.
The Philippine Navy plays a central role in protecting the country’s maritime interests, securing territorial waters and supporting national defense operations.
