RoughDeckLog

THE OFFICIAL GAZETTE OF THE PHILIPPINE NAVY • VOLUME NO. 85 • JANUARY 2020

NEWS STORY
NAVY DEPLOYS 2 SHIPS TO HELP
REPATRIATE FILIPINOS IN MIDDLE EAST p.6
PH NAVY DEPLOYS RESCUE TEAMS AS
TAAL VOLCANO’S ALERT LEVEL 4 REMAINS p.7
PHILIPPINE NAVY DONATES RELIEF
GOODS TO TAAL VICTIMS p.8
FEATURE ARTICLE

YOUR NAVY IN
THE VISAYAS:
SECURING SINULOG 2020 p.18

SAIL-PLAN CORNER
A CHANGE THE NAVY CHOSE TO TAKE p.27

PN ROUGHDECKLOG 1
 CONTENT
RoughDeckLog
Editorial Board
11
VADM ROBERT A EMPEDRAD AFP
Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy
ABOUT THE COVER

07
RADM DANTE M HIDALGO AFP Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte leads
the send-off of Navy contigent to Middle East on
Vice Commander, Philippine Navy Jan. 14 at Pier 13, South Harbor, Manila to aid

17
in the repatriation of Overseas Filipino Workers
RADM REY T DELA CRUZ AFP (OFW) as tension in Iran remains high.
Chief of Naval Staff
COL EDWIN JOSEPH H OLAER PN(M)(MNSA)
Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for Civil Military VOLUME NO. 85 • JANUARY 2020 ISSUE
Operations, N7

Editorial Staff
Protecting
MORALE & WEFARE FEATURED ARTICLE

Editor-In-Chief 4 Moral Compass for God-centered & 18 Your Navy in the Visayas:

the Seas,
Morally Upright Philippine Navy Securing Sinulog 2020
LCDR MARIA CHRISTINA A ROXAS PN
NEWS STORIES 20 NFEM: One of the sturdiest vanguards
Editorial Assistants
in Eastern Mindanao

Securing
LT ENRICO T PAYONGAYONG PN 6 Navy deploys 2 ships to help repatriate
Filipinos in Middle East
LT RYAN H LUNA PN 22 Honor the Past, Celebrate the Present
LT RANDY P GARBO PN 7 PH Navy deploys rescue teams as

our Future
Taal Volcano’s Alert Level 4 remains 24 Advancing Technology of Naval Defense
Technical Assistants
SK3 Elvin F Macatangay PN 8 Philippine Navy donates relief goods
to Taal victims SAIL PLAN CORNER
YN3 Dexter M Dimabayao PN
YN3 Gino G Gullon PN 10 ADMU partners with Navy on Taal Relief 27 A Change the Navy chose to take
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions Operations
ET3 Oliver B Francisco PN
CPL Wenly M Ortega PN(M) expressed in this publication are those 11 Philippine Navy retires two legacy ships, ANNOUNCEMENT
S2PH Ray Ban E Sinfuego PN of the authors and do not necessarily aircraft
29 Best Photo and Article for December 2019
S2JO Ronald A Pataueg PN reflect the official policy or position of 12 NFNL conduct search and rescue
S2PH Hans Bryan E Lim PN the Philippine Navy, the Armed Forces operations for 7 missing fishermen NEED TO KNOW
S2PH Ryan Albert C Sanchez PN of the Philippines, and the Philippine 13 Marines, Air Force seize 500 drums
Government. of smuggled fuel off Tawi-Tawi 29 BRP Nicolas Mahusay (PC-119)
S2PH Joseph C Angue PN
S2DP Charisma N Narvaza PN Share your story. Send us your news 14 Middle East-bound PH Navy ships on 29 Mayday
S2JO Cyrin Ann T Guingona PN and feature articles at navy.speak@ its historical mark in Sri Lanka
S2PH Mark John P Navarro PN gmail.com for inclusion in the next PN 15 Spanish Navy Chief of Naval Staff 30 FACEBOOK CORNER
S2PH Sherwin D Donato PN Rough Deck Log issue. visits Philippine Navy
Mr. Karl Thomas L. Rosello Civ HR Philippine Navy Traditional New Year’s Call
16 Myanmar Navy Chief visits PH Navy
Ms. Ariane Joy A. Rodelas Civ HR NAVAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE
Mr. John Marwin F. Elao Headquarters Philippine Navy, 17 PH Navy gives tribute to
PN SEA Games Athletes
Mr. Arman Joshua A. San Andres Naval Station Jose Andrada
2335 Roxas Boulevard, Manila
Phone Number: (02) 523-3438
Mobile Number: (+63) 917-569-6840

2 PHILIPPINE NAVY PN ROUGHDECKLOG 3

MORALE & WELFARE
Moral Compass
for God-centered
& Morally Upright
Philippine Navy
by: Office of the Naval Chief Chaplain
The Philippine Navy (PN)
envisions to become a “God-
centered and morally upright
by 2020 and beyond.” The Naval
Chief Chaplain, Col. Melchor S.
Fernando shares the same vision.
He propels the PN Chaplains in
attaining the same goal. Thus, the
birth of character enhancement
program in the Philippine Navy.
From one unit to another, the
Naval Chief Chaplain tirelessly
leads the conduct of Philippine
Navy Character Enhancement
Program (PNCEP). He must have
seen the need and importance of a
moral compass in the life of every
sailor and marines.
With our minds fixed on the goal,
the Office of The Naval Chief
Chaplain (OTNCC) shares the
Ten Commandments for Soldiers.
May these become the moral
compass for the Philippine Navy
to follow:
4 PHILIPPINE NAVY
1
I AM THE LORD, YOUR GOD.
THOU SHALT HAVE NO
OTHER GODS BESIDES ME.
Do not pretend to be God and do
not consider yourself omniscient or
omnipotent. Listen to your conscience
and your comrades/ subordinates/
superiors. Be critical of the zeitgeist
and orient yourself to lasting values.
2
THOU SHALT NOT
DISHONOR THE
NAME OF GOD.
Do not abuse God and the religious
symbols for promotional purposes.
Do not speak of the highest values if
you do not act accordingly. Do not
hide your military mission behind
high moral standards.
3 THOU SHALL SANCTIFY
THE DAY OF THE LORD.
As far as the assignment allows,
keep Sunday free as a time for
recreation, thanksgiving, and family
life. Respect the religious claims of
your comrades. Make sure to rest
and reflect in the hustle and bustle of
everyday life.
4
THOU SHOULD HONOR
YOUR FATHER AND
MOTHER.
Take care of fathers and mothers who
work for the next generation and
thus secure the future. As a superior,
promote the use of older comrades,
just as you give younger soldiers a
chance.
5 8
THOU SHALT NOT SAY
THOU SHALT
FALSE THINGS TO THY
NOT KILL.
NEIGHBOR.
By the use of firearms as a soldier you
do not act arbitrarily and out of greed.
As long as you follow the laws of war,
Ignore the untruthful statements
about comrades and superiors. Do
not promise more than you can hold
you are the tool of state authority.
Your actions are legal and not morally
and stand by your decisions and the
possible negative consequences. Stay
reprehensible. credible and predictable.
Those too who devote themselves to
9
the military service of their country THOU SHALT
should regard themselves as the NOT COVET THY
agents of security and freedom of NEIGHBOR’S WIFE.
peoples. As long as they fulfil this role
properly, they are making a genuine Never act merely for sympathy.
contribution to the establishment of Never promote inferiors just because
peace. (Vatican II- GS 79) you have a preference for them. Do
not exploit your supremacy and
opportunities, where soldiers serve
far from the family, to sexually harass
6
THOU SHALT
and abuse comrades.
NOT COMMIT
ADULTERY.
Do not be “married” to the service
of the gun that your family suffers.
Even with prolonged absence from the 10
THOU SHALT
NOT COVET THY
NEIGHBOR’S GOODS.
family through foreign missions and
exercises again possible lure. Consider Restrain your desire. Keep your
the fiduciary duty to your family. selfishness in check. Avoid the vices
of envy and greed. Rejoice that others
succeed and show it to them.
7 THOU SHALT
NOT STEAL.
In closing, may our strong faith in the
Lord Jesus guide our feet into the way
of peace.
Pay attention to the spiritual and
material property of others. Do not
“Beliefs are our foundation
deny them of the opportunity to
perform better. Do not let yourself and our guiding compass,
be corrupted by benefits that are navigating us through life”
not based on your performance and
do not tempt others. Be faithful in - Kim Ha Campbell,
small as in big things. Do not write Inner Peace Outer Abundance
the achievements of others on your
flag, but also look forward to their
recognition.
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 5
NEWS STORIES
Navy deploys 2 ships to help
repatriate Filipinos in Middle East
The Philippine Navy (PN) held a send-
off ceremony at Pier 13, South Harbor,
Manila on Jan. 14 for BRP Davao
Del Sur (LD602) and BRP Ramon
Alcaraz (PS16) with an onboard naval
helicopter, departing for the Middle
East to help in the repatriation of the
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs)
there as tensions particularly in Iran
remain imminent.
Philippine President and AFP
Commander-In-Chief, Rodrigo
Duterte oversaw the deployment of
Naval Task Force (NTF) 82.1 comprises
of around 400 sailors and marines
headed by its commander, Colonel
Noel D Beleran. The President was
joined by the Secretary of National
Defense Delfin Lorenzana and Navy
Chief Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad.
In his remarks, the President
informed the contingent that this
mission is to safeguard the lives of
the Filipino people. He said, “I tasked
you this duty with the prayer and
with the hope that you carry out
the mission successfully and that
everybody will be saved.”
6 PHILIPPINE NAVY
Landing dock (LD) 602 is one of
the largest vessels of the PN while
PS16 has the modern capability to
help provide needed security. The
PN contingent is expected to reach
Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in
25 days, with lay over in Sri Lanka for
refueling and replenishment.
The deployment of the naval
task force is in support to the AFP
Joint Task Force “Pagpauli” mission
in the Middle East and in line with
the interagency undertaking Oplan
Pagbabalik which primary objective
is to save lives and ensure the safety of
OFWs in Iran, Iraq and other areas in
the Middle East through repatriation.
LD602 and PS16 will serve
as sea-based platforms that can
provide decent accommodation and
necessities for OFWs displaced by the
looming conflict in the Middle East.
This deployment of PN personnel
and assets manifests an advancing
navy that is now capable to provide
humanitarian assistance for our
fellow Filipinos wherever they are in
the world.
▪
PH Navy deploys rescue teams as
Taal Volcano’s Alert Level 4 remains
The Philippine Navy (PN) has
deployed its Disaster Risk Reduction
Teams (DRRT) within Manila-Cavite
area to help the affected communities
of the disaster brought by the Taal
Volcano eruptive activity.
PN deployed its DRRTs in
Batangas area to aid thousands of
Filipinos affected by the Taal Volcano
eruption. There are 32 DRRTs from
Manila – Cavite area that are tasked
by the headquarters to utilize
all available assets for the relief
operations to the affected families of
this calamity.
The alert level 4 was raised in Taal
Volcano by the Philippine Institute
of Volcanology and Seismology
(Phivolcs) following its phreatic
eruption last Jan. 12. This alert means
that “hazardous explosive eruption
is possible within hours to days.”
Eleven Batangas towns are
now under total lockdown, as of
writing, due to the dangerous
effect of the on-going Taal eruptive
activity, prompting thousands of the
population to flee their homes.
The Philippine Navy is always
ready to provide personnel and
mobilize its assets to assist our fellow
Filipinos affected by this calamity.
This quick disaster response is in
line with the PN’s commitment
to provide rapid assistance to our
disaster-stricken countrymen in
order to alleviate them from their
current ordeals.
▪
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 7
 Philippine Navy donates
relief goods to Taal victims
The Philippine Navy (PN) donated
almost P700,000 worth of relief goods
in the municipality of San Luis in
Batangas on Jan. 26 to alleviate the
sufferings of affected residents due to
Taal volcano eruption.
The Flag Officer In Command,
Philippine Navy, Vice Adm. Robert
A. Empedrad personally turned over
the relief goods to the Municipality
Social Welfare Development (MSWD)
of San Luis, Batangas through Mrs.
Cherry Ann Moredo–De Guzmam.
Witnessing the event was their
municipal mayor, Hon. Danilo Medina
together with their parish priest, Rev.
Fr. Hermogenes Rodelas.
The Navy chief was accompanied
by his wife Blessie and son, Jelome
together with other PN senior leaders,
the Fleet-Marine Ready Force and at the
same time NTG “Taal” Commander,
Commo Toribio Adaci Jr., the Naval
Reserve Command Commander,
8 PHILIPPINE NAVY
Brig. Gen. Ariel Caculitan, and PN
Civil Military Operations Group
commander, Col. Ricardo Petrola.
He was also joined by both PN
regular and reserve force. The navy
reservists through Naval Forces
Reserve-National Capital Region
(NFR-NCR) under its commander,
Capt.Norman Biola assisted in
distributing relief goods. On the
other hand, Lt. Col. Sonny K. Wang
(Res), Commanding Officer of Marine
Affiliated Reserve – Combat Service
Support Battalion and his team
provided necessary transport support
to relief convoy.
Three evacuation sites where
identified for the distribution of the
relief goods. The first one was in San
Isidro Labrador Parish Church in
Brgy. Poblacion, where thousands of
residents from Lemery and Taal were
temporarily sheltered. The second
was in Taliba Evacuation Center in
Brgy. Taliba and San Luis Academy in
Calumpang West. Both were attended
by their Brgy. Captain, respectively.
On the said event, almost 4,000
relief goods were given to the evacuees
in the three areas. The PN donated
relief goods contained a pail, 1 kilo of
rice, assorted canned goods and food
pack, bottled waters and personal
hygiene kit.
Other than PN donated goods,
other relief goods were also distributed
by the “Tulong Taal” team that
include 2,500 packs of relief items
donated by PN partner stakeholders
- the Yes Pinoy Foundation chaired by
newly promoted Navy reservist, Lcdr.
Jose Sixto “Dingdong” Dantes III (Res)
and Ateneo de Manila University
through Rev. Fr. Manuel “Manoling”
Francisco, who likewise attended the
donation of goods.
More so, 150 mattress foam from
Uratex Company and dozens of
various relief items from other PN
stakeholders were also distributed in
this activity.
Mrs. Moredo-De Guzman, MSWD
representative thanked the Philippine
Navy in helping the Municipality of
Government of San Luis in assisting
the evacuees. She said “We would
like to extend our sincerest gratitude
to the Philippine Navy. The internally
displaced persons in our town felt the
loved with your group. Thank you so
much for the generosity.”
The Navy chief lauded the relief
and response efforts extended so far
by the members of the PN in support
to the AFP Joint Task Group “Taal”
and in coordination with the LGUs
and government agencies to alleviate
the sufferings of affected residents due
to Taal eruption.
“In a week time, I’m going to
retire from the service, and it is
unfortunate that this kind of calamity
took off among our Kababayans, my
heart goes to these people. I want to
ensure that before I move from my
office, our diligent efforts to provide
humanitarian assistance to these Taal
victims will be delivered as needed by
our people. We are always willing to
assist our stakeholders as we assure
everyone that your Navy is always
ready to serve in every situation and
that you can always count on us, “ said
Navy Chief, Vice Adm. Empedrad.
▪
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 9
 ADMU partners with Navy on Philippine Navy retires two
Taal Relief Operations legacy ships, aircraft
by: Civil Military Operations Group, PN
The Philippine Navy (PN) Year” in 1971.
Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) Together with our ever dependable decommissioned two of its legacy
joins the continuous effort of the partner stakeholders, Tulong-Taal ships and aircraft in Sangley Point, Similar to PS74, BRP Nicolas
Philippine Navy (PN) in providing is a part of the PN’s Humanitarian Cavite City on Jan. 29, after years of Mahusay has mostly devoted its
relief operations for the victims of Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) their invaluable service to the PN service by steadfastly patrolling our
the Taal volcano eruption dubbed as efforts which proves that the Navy is and the Filipino people in a joint islands from internal and external
Tulong-Taal. always ready to extend our help to our ceremony presided by the Flag Officer threats. Furthermore, PC119 once
kababayans especially those who are In Command, PN, Vice Adm. Robert served as the flagship of the famous
On Jan. 22, ADMU turned over in need. Both our regular and reserve A. Empedrad. anti-terrorist Task Group Stingray
various relief goods including 1,000 force give their diligent support to whose mission was to deter and
pails of assorted goods and hygiene provide humanitarian assistance to The PN retired BRP Rizal (PS74), neutralize terrorism in coastal areas
kits, 400 pails with another set of people who are affected by the said
▪
BRP Nicolas Mahusay (PC119) and and deny the use of the sea lanes as
assorted goods, hygiene kits and 4 calamity. deactivated PN Islander (NV304). area of operation. Its spotless record
liters gallon of water, also showed the extraordinary
190 sacks of rice (50 kg), BRP Rizal became part of the commitment of the generation of
180 boxes of canned Navy when it was turned over to skippers and men as they achieve
goods, 80 boxes instant the Republic of the Philippines and milestones for the PN.
noodles, 10 boxes of subsequently commissioned on June
assorted medicines and 12, 1965 in Seattle, Washington, USA Meanwhile, NV304 was honored
800 gallons (3 liters) of in return for all the successful flight
as RPS Rizal (PS69).
water. missions it undertook for 43 solid
With its 54 years as commissioned years in the Philippine Naval Aviation
The Civil Military
ship in the PN, PS74 has been history, listing so many significant
Operations Group-PN
deployed to the different Naval Task accomplishments, and surveillance
(CMOG-PN) in col-
Force areas of responsibility and and mission patrol. NV304 also proved
laboration with Naval
accomplished multifarious missions to be an astounding defender of the
Reserved Command
(NRC) through Naval and earned its numerous awards and country’s airspace and islands where
Forces Reserve-National commendations from the Operational it became the Navy’s eye in the sky.
Capital Region (NFR- Commanders. Noteworthy of which
NCR), Naval Reserve were the awards as “Naval Operating
Center-National Capital Force” in 1970, “Ship of the Year” and
Region (NRCen-NCR) “Anti-Submarine Force Ship of the
and Naval Reserve
Center-Southern Luzon
(NRCen-SL) worked
hand-in-hand to assist
ADMU in delivering the
said relief goods to Lipa
Archdiocesan Social
Action Center (LASAC)
Inc.

10 PHILIPPINE NAVY PN ROUGHDECKLOG 11

 During the ceremony, Vice Adm.
Empedrad, narrating the remarkable
feats these ships and aircraft has done
for the Navy said, “BRP Rizal (PS74),
BRP Nicolas Mahusay (PC119), and
NV304 have completed decades of
dedicated service since their inclusion
in the Navy’s inventory but we shall
draw inspiration once again from their
long list of accomplishments being
once brave and courageous protectors
or seas, coasts and boundaries.”
The decommissioning and
deactivation ceremony is part of the
Phase-in, Phase-out Program of the
PN which is vital for the PN’s vision of
stronger, more credible modern Navy.
The Navy is retiring these existing
ships and aircraft to pave the way for
NFNL conducts search and rescue
operations for 7 missing fishermen
by: Naval Forces Northern Luzon PAO
The Naval Forces Northern Luzon
(NFNL) continues its search for seven
fishermen reported missing in the wa-
ters off Pangasinan since Jan. 14.
Initial reports revealed the missing
fishermen were aboard fishing vessels
Narem 2 when it ventured out to sea
on Jan. 6, however, they failed to re-
turn in Infanta, Pangasinan on their
return date, Jan. 14, as reported by the
owner of said fishing banca, Christine
Macaraig. The boat’s crew are identi-
fied as Captain Alberto Roldan, Rod-
erick Montemayor, Homar Maglantay,
Ejay Dela Cruz, Jerome Maglantay,
Larry Legaspi, and Jefferson Bernabe.
12 PHILIPPINE NAVY
the arrival of new ones. Today may
have been the last day that they serve
our maritime nation, but they will
remain an epitome of loyal service to
our maritime nation.
▪ He also coordinated with the
Macaraig claimed she was able to
reach FB Narem 2 through radio com-
munication last Jan. 13. She was in-
formed that the crew encountered big
waves. However, she has not been able
to receive any further information on
their situation or whereabouts since
then.
The boat’s last reported location
was at 60 nautical miles off Camaso
Island in Dasol, Pangasinan.
Immediately, NFNL Command-
er Commo. Caesar Bernard Valencia,
also Head of Task Force Karagatan, or-
dered the dispatch of all available na-
val and air assets and personnel near-
est from the area to conduct search
and rescue operation and maritime
aerial surveillance.
members of TF Karagatan, the PNP
Maritime Region 1, Coast Guard Dis-
trict North Western Luzon (PCG) and
BFAR Region 1 to lend assistance in
the operations.
From Jan. 17 to 20, NFNL contin-
uously conducted their search in the
West Philippine Sea but to no avail.
On Jan. 21, two Navy ships, the
PC388 and PB322, stationed at Sual fish
Marines, Air Force seize 500 drums
of smuggled fuel off Tawi-Tawi
by: Naval Forces Western Mindanao PAO
Maritime Interdiction Operations
(MIO) conducted led to the apprehen-
sion of M/L Arnalyn 2 loaded with 500
drums of smuggled fuel on Jan. 21 in
Brgy. Paggasinan, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.
At about 11:30 p.m. on said date,
joint operating elements from the Phil-
ippine Marine Corps and Philippine
Air Force apprehended M/L Arnalyn
2 in Tawi-Tawi and was able to confis-
cate more or less 500 drums of alleged
smuggled fuel products and assorted
goods.
M/L Arnalyn 2 was apprehended
after its crew failed to present proper
documentation for the fuel. The smug-
gled fuel, which originated in Sabah,
Malaysia, has an estimated market
port in Sual, Pangasinan were deployed
to search the coast of Pangasinan to Ilo-
cos Sur. However, the operation was
terminated 7 p.m. due to unfavourable
sea condition. The operation was also
temporarily stopped for the safety of
the searching team but is set to contin-
ue once the weather improve.
NFNL also coordinated with local
fishermen in the area to report imme-
diately to any local authorities if they
locate signs of the missing fishermen.
“We will not stop giving assis-
tance, sending our naval assets to lo-
cate the missing fishermen,” assured
Commodore Valencia.
▪
value of P11.3 million. M/L Arnalyn 2
with its crew identified as Zalde Cap,
Akmad Amil, Almujil Sajirin, Bundol
Bakal, Zalde Ajan and Ameer Kaidal
Abduhasan were r escorted to Bongao
Pier for proper documentation and
disposition.
The successful foiling of the alleged
illegal transport of smuggled fuel was
a result of an intensified and focused
maritime patrol and operation of the
Philippine Navy in collaboration with
other partner agencies. With this, the
Philippine Navy through the Naval
Forces Western Mindanao with its op-
erating units will continue to remain
vigilant in the conduct of its mandated
task to deter any unlawful activities in
▪
its area of operations.
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 13
 Middle East-bound PH Navy ships
on its historical mark in Sri Lanka
The Philippine Navy (PN) vessels, BRP
Ramon Alcaraz (PS16) and BRP Davao
Del Sur (LD602) made its first histori-
cal mark as it made its stop at the East
Container Terminal in The Democratic
Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Jan. 26.
The Naval Task Force 82 “Oplan
Pagbabalik” contingent was deployed
and bound for Middle East to help in
the repatriation of OFWs affected by
the looming tensions there. This is
the PN’s support operation to the AFP
14 PHILIPPINE NAVY
Joint Task Force “Pagpauli.”
Said layover was intended for refu-
eling and reprovisioning only but Sri
Lanka Navy (SLN) desired to host it
as official visit as it was the first time
for PN ships and personnel to pass by
this territory and traverse the Indian
Ocean.
The Naval Task Force (NTF) 82
headed by Marine Col. Noel Beleran
was accorded a welcome ceremony by
counterparts from SLN
Western Naval Area
(WNA). The party then
paid courtesy to the
WNA commander, Rear
Adm. Sumith Ananda
Weerasinghe.
This visit was an-
other milestone for the
Philippines-Sri Lanka
relations that was estab-
lished in 1961 and re-
cently being sustained
and enhanced by naval
diplomacy. It can be re-
called that SLN ship
P626 made its first-time
goodwill visit to Manila
in April 2019.
Moreover, the histor-
ic sail on Indian Ocean
by PN ships validates its
status as a Navy that is
now capable to sustain
operations across open
oceans.
▪ bilateral engagements such as staff-to-
Spanish Navy Chief of Naval Staff
visits Philippine Navy
The Spanish Navy Chief of Naval Staff,
Adm. Teodoro E. Lopez Calderon vis-
ited the Philippine Navy (PN) on Jan.
21 in a bid to strengthen the relations
between the two navies.
An arrival honors was accorded to
Adm. Lopez Calderon as he arrived at
the PN headquarters to pay courtesy to
the Flag Officer in Command, PN, Vice
Adm. Robert A. Empedrad. Together
with other PN senior leaders and HPN
staff, the Navy chief awarded the visit-
ing Spanish Navy Chief of Naval Staff
with an honorary flag rank command
badge. After which a briefing and ex-
change of views were conducted.
The visit provided both navies the
opportunity to share best practices
and operational experience on vari-
ous challenges faced in carrying out staff talks between the two navies.
their respective missions. Both sides,
likewise, exchanged views on the mar- In his remarks, Adm. Lopez Cal-
itime security environment in their deron assured the PN of the Spanish
respective regions most especially on Navy’s support saying, “Our engage-
the challenges in terms of maximizing ment in the past continuous to increase
limited resources and how their navy and improve. We are so far away but
pursued common maritime threat we have similar threats in some way
such as piracy at sea, smuggling, ter- though different in characteristics…
rorism and others. The commitment of the Spanish Navy
is to help and support you. We will
With regard to modernization ef- continue to increase our collabora-
forts, the PN expressed interest in the tion.”
submarine program of the Spanish
Navy. This will help the Command Meanwhile, Vice Adm. Empedrad
as it pursue its submarine acquisition stated, “The PN honors the long-stand-
as part of its modernization program. ing relations and close ties that we
This can be done by establishing a have with Spanish Navy. As we share
framework of cooperation through common lineage and ancestry… I
take pride in knowing that distance
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 15
 PH Navy gives tribute to PN
or oceans for that matter, do not in promotion of naval diplomacy have
any way created hindrance for us to been rooted in deep and decades of
establish deep-rooted friendship that historical links between the two coun-

SEA Games Athletes

spanned for centuries.”
The high-level engagements and
tries which are now geared toward
capability development and defense
cooperation.
▪
The Philippine Navy (PN) honors its expressed his utmost support and ap-
athletes on Jan. 06 through a Recog- preciation to PN athletes saying, “The

Myanmar Navy Chief visits PH Navy

The Commander-in-Chief of the
Myanmar Navy, Adm. Tin Aung San
visited the Philippine Navy headquar-
ters in Manila on Jan. 16 to pay cour-
tesy to the Flag Officer In Command,
Philippine Navy, Vice Adm. Robert A.
Empedrad.
The visit of the Adm. Tin Aung
San closely follows the recent visit of
the PN chief last November 2019 in
Myanmar. This marks Myanmar Navy
Chief’s second visit in the country af-
ter he attended the Asian Defense, Se-
curity and Crisis Management Exhibi-
tion and Conference last 2018.
During the visit, both navies dis-
cussed varied topics including recruit-
ment and training, modernization,
self-reliance defense posture, resource
management and future bilateral en-
gagements.
After visiting the PN headquarters,
Adm. Tin Aung San and party visited
the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) as
part of his four-day itinerary where
the Marine Corps Commandant, Maj.
Gen. Nathaniel Y. Casem formally re-
ceived him.
Adm. Tin Aung San served as the
Commanding Officer of Fast Attack
Craft, Submarine Chaser, OPV and
Corvette. He assumed the post of
Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar
Navy on August 10, 2015 and was pro-
moted to Admiral on April 1, 2016.
The warm reception accorded
by the Philippine Navy to the vis-
iting Myanmar Navy
nition Dinner at Acero Hall, Bonifacio
Naval Station, Fort Bonifacio Taguig
City with the Flag Officer In Com-
mand, Philippine Navy, Vice Adm.
Robert A. Empedrad as host.
In attendance were 50 PN Athletes
who have showcased their skills in dif-
ferent fields of sports during the 30th
Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games)
hosted by the Philippines from Nov. 30
to Dec. 11, 2019. Present also were unit
commanders within Manila-Cavite
area and other senior officers.
As a tribute to them, the Navy
Chief rendered this dinner for their
laudable achievements which earned
distinct credit not only for themselves
but also for the Philippine Navy, the
AFP and the Philippines which was
hailed as the overall champion in the
recent SEA Games.
In his speech, Vice Adm. Empedrad
Navy will support you 100% we will
give what you need but train hard and
get the gold. I’m happy to come here
to honor you. From the bottom of my
heart, congratulations to our athletes
for giving honor to the country.”
On the other hand, Lcdr. Marly
Martir who bagged two golds for the
country and the senior athlete present
during the celebratory dinner, in her
message, noted that competing for the
country “is a big challenge for every
athlete.”
Lcdr. Martir also expressed her ap-
preciation to the Navy Chief, “for the
never-ending support to us and for
this momentous recognition dinner for
all the Navy athletes.”
The Philippine Navy fully supports
its officers and personnel who gives
the country’s pride and honor through
▪
sports.

Chief solidifies the

Command’s firm com-
mitment to forge bilat-
eral ties to its neigh-
boring naval forces.
The visit hallmarks
the growing level of
maritime cooperation
from both navies; as it
intends to enhance the
defense relations be-
tween the Philippines
and Myanmar.
▪
16 PHILIPPINE NAVY PN ROUGHDECKLOG 17
FEATURE ARTICLES
YOUR NAVY IN THE VISAYAS:
Securing
Sinulog 2020
by: Naval Forces Central PAO
The Sinulog Festival is one of the most
anticipated and celebrated festivals on
the Philippine calendar, enticing not
just the Sugbuanon community but as
well as local and foreign visitors. The
festivity –held every third Sunday of
January, flaunts choreographed danc-
es, colorful costumes, and creative
floats but, the center of it all, is the cel-
ebration of the country’s most famous
historic relics: the miraculous image of
the Balaang Bata “Señor Santo Niño de
Cebu”.
Prior to this grand celebration, a
series of religious activities took place
from Jan. 09 to 24. One of these was
the traditional fluvial parade where
hundreds of devotees braves the rotat-
ing waves of Mactan Channel to show
their devotion by accompanying the
miraculous image of the Sto. Niño de
18 PHILIPPINE NAVY
Cebu in his short voyage.
For this year’s fluvial procession,
Naval Forces Central (NFC) once again
took a significant role by providing ac-
cess to Captain Veloso Pier as staging
area for LCT Camomot of Mandaue
Shipping Lines which was used as the
ceremonial “galleon” of the miracu-
lous image. Moreover, the activation
of Naval Task Group (NTG) SINULOG
2020 jibed with the 9th Leg of Visay-
an Patrol Mission provided maritime
security during the fluvial procession
in coordination with Coast Guard Dis-
trict Central Visayas which resulted to
zero accidents or mishaps at sea. Like-
wise, NAVSOU5 Seal, Boat and Dive
Teams with one Rigid Inflatable Boat
and two rubber boats performed as
sweepers to prevent small crafts/ves-
sels/boats from getting near the gal-
leon. Sealift/ferry mission accommo-
dated and ferried devotees, pilgrims
and well-wishers while conducting
MARSEC and securing the “Tradition-
al Galleon” of Sto. Niño de Cebu. The
vessels that were utilized on the said
activity were: BRP Batak (LC299), BRP
Ivatan (LC298), BRP Tagbanua (LC296),
BRP Alfredo Peckson (PC372), BRP
Salvador Abcede (PC114), and 2 patrol
boats PB349 and PB341 that catered
more than 1,220 devotees and tourists.
The Sinulog Grand Parade known
as “Sinulog Grand Mardi Gras” was
held the following day which was the
acme of the festival characterized by
a pageantry of colorful religious and
secular articles, lively street dance, gi-
ant floats, and motorcades with media
personality onboard paraded around
the City of Cebu. This year’s en grande
celebration was graced for the first
time by the president himself, Pres-
ident Rodrigo Roa Duterte, together
with Presidential Assistant for the Vi-
sayas Michael Lloyd Dino and Senator
Bong Go at Cebu City Sports Complex
Grandstand.
NFC actively supported the grand
parade by providing personnel as
crowd control. The parade Naval Task
Unit Grand Parade deployed 148 re-
servists from the Naval Reserve Center
Eastern Visayas and 31 NFC organic
personnel to augment as crowd control
– deflecting the heat of the blaring sun
just to ensure the safety and security of
the thousands of devotees who wished
to witness, and untiringly dance to the
beat of the Sinulog fever, contributed
to the peaceful and successful conduct
of Sinulog 2020 Grand Parade. In ad-
dition, a communications team from
NICTS Cebu and Office for C4ISR was
also deployed at Central Command’s
Advance Command Post located at
Cebu City Sports Complex and three
Non Commissioned Officers who per-
formed as liaison personnel for NFC at
the Multi-Agency Coordinating Cen-
ter, Headquarters PRO7, Cebu City.
With the Philippine Navy on its
doorstep to its vision year, through
Naval Forces Central’s participation to
this kind of activity, solitarily shows
that “Your Navy in the Visayas” is not
only limited in securing our maritime
waters but is also an imagery of capa-
bility to support the endeavor of its
stakeholders.
▪
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 19
 NFEM:
ONE OF THE STURDIEST VANGUARDS
IN EASTERN MINDANAO
by: Ms. Noreen M San Luis Civ HR
Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao
(NFEM) has long been operating in
Davao City since 1991. It is one of the
strongest operational commands of
the Philippine Navy with a highly re-
sponsive and potent force in protect-
ing the maritime interests in Eastern
Mindanao. It was established over
two decades ago and developed from
modest to many complex roles per-
formed. NFEM never cease to accom-
plish its endeavors towards protecting
the eastern seaboard considering the
Philippine archipelago is located at the
crossroads of Asia-Pacific with two of
the international navigational routes
within the area of responsibility name-
ly; Surigao Strait-Balabac Strait and
Balut Channel with thousands of local
and international vessels that traverse
these waters, making it highly vulner-
able to foreign intrusions and external
threats.
PRESERVING MARITIME INTERESTS
20 PHILIPPINE NAVY
For this year, the Command suc-
cessfully hosted two major Interna-
tional International Defense and Se-
curity Engagement (IDSE) between
Philippine Navy through Naval Forc-
es Eastern Mindanao and Indonesian
Navy including the conduct of COR-
PAT PHILINDO XXX-19 last May to
July which resulted to the return of
ten Filipino repatriates who were de-
tained at Manado, Indonesia, and First
Maritime Training Activity dubbed as
PHILINDO 01/19 which conducted last
Nov. 25 to 29, 2019 within NFEM area
of responsibility. These activities en-
hanced the maritime interoperability
of both countries in law enforcement at
sea, HADR operations, and protection
of citizens crossing the borders while
fostering harmonious relationships
and building linkages together with
the Philippine Navy as vanguards of
the seas.
CURTAIL ILLEGAL ELEMENTS
IN EASTERN MINDANAO
To support the Eastern Mindanao
Command's mission in eradicating il-
legal activities in area of responsibility,
NFEM accomplished more or less 598
surface patrol missions under Internal
Security Operations which resulted
to the following: confiscation of three
fishing vessels and variety of fishing
gears and paraphernalia with an esti-
mated market value of Php 6,700,00.00
and apprehension of one Motor Banca
with 23 crew including two Indonesian
Nationals who was involved in smug-
gling of 80 game fowls at Sarangani
Bay with an estimated market value
of P500,000. Moreover, NFEM contin-
uously supports the anti-illegal drug
campaign of the current administra-
tion wherein the command conduct-
ed joint operations in Davao Oriental
together with PDEA RO XI and Mati
City Police Station which resulted to
the apprehension of 9 individuals for
the possession of illegal drugs and
confiscated large sachets of suspected
shabu and Drugs paraphernalia with
an Estimated Market Value of P6.5
million. NFEM also facilitated the sur-
render of eight former NPA members,
who then became contributory in in-
fluencing other members to return to
the folds of the law.
BRISK RESPONSE FOR ANY DISASTERS
The Philippines is highly vulnera-
ble to the impacts of climate change,
including increased frequency of ex-
treme weather events, rising tempera-
tures, and extreme rainfall. Hence,
several flash floods and landslides
happened within this year due to
strong typhoons. With this, the Com-
mand set its goal to conduct disaster
response operations in the quickest
way possible. NFEM rescued 43 res-
idents in Barangay Anibongan, Car-
men, Davao del Norte on Jan. 27 to 28,
2019 and 282 residents of Barangay
Talomo and Bangkal including infants,
children, elderly and pregnant women
last Aug. 28, 2019, both were victims of
flash flood due to the heavy downpour
brought by the tail-end of cold front.
NFEM together with the Philippine
Coast Guard also rescued 317 passen-
gers aboard M/V Ferries 8 bound for
Bohol who went aground at the waters
of Nasipit, Agusan del Norte last April
2019. Meanwhile, Mindanao, particu-
larly in the North Cotabato area, suf-
fered consecutive strong and shallow
earthquakes within October 2019 that
destroyed many buildings, houses and
even schools in the said area. Thus,
NFEM delivered laminated sacks for
shelter and relief goods donated by the
different units of Philippine Navy and
stakeholders to the residents of Mag-
pet, North Cotabato last Nov. 13 and
17, 2019.
COMPLETING THE TRIAD WITH CMO
As a partner in sustaining commu-
nity-building, NFEM endeavors and
advocates a more sense of "social re-
sponsibility". Thus, 22 Public schools
mostly situated in the far-flung ar-
eas benefited in the Brigada Eskwe-
la 2019 with a theme of "Matatag na
Bayan Para sa Maunlad na Paaralan".
Moreover, the Command rendered
four Basic Health Services through
the Medical Civic Action Program
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 21
 (MEDCAP) and Dental Civic Action
Program (DENCAP), which catered a
total of 1,364 beneficiaries. Engineer-
ing Civic Action Program (ENCAP)
was also broadened through the re-
pair of Madrassah, an Islamic school
in barangay Tibungco, Davao City,
repair of Nipa Hut in House of Hope
Foundation, Bajada, Davao City and
facilitated the maintenance of Housing
Project at Bongaitan, Bislig City. Team
NFEM successfully conducted seven
Tree Planting Activity with a total of
2,350 seedlings planted and deployed
eight artificial coral reefs at the waters
of Samal Island and Davao City. Like-
wise, the Command participated in the
conduct of Coastal Clean-Up activity
in five local communities including
Barangay Panacan, Tibungco, Matina
Pangi Davao City, Balet, Samal Island,
and San Isidro, Davao Oriental.
In general, the significant accom-
plishments of Naval Forces Eastern
Mindanao show the eagerness to re-
HONOR
THE PAST,
CELEBRATE
THE PRESENT
by: Naval Forces Southern Luzon PAO
22 PHILIPPINE NAVY
main steadfast in continuing to per-
form its mandated tasks and missions
especially in securing the maritime en-
vironment of the AOR as the sea senti-
nel of Eastern Mindanao.
▪ the latter’s, they still
The Battle of Legazpi Pylon was ac-
claimed by the National Historical
Institute of the Philippines in 2001 as
one of the National Historical Sites in
the Philippines. It is a tribute to the
battle of the Albayanos against the
American invaders in 1900.
As written in a small tablet below
the memorial, on the 23rd of January
1900, in the City of Legazpi, the Filipi-
nos bravely fought the American Sol-
diers of the third battalion of the 47th
infantry, which was headed by Brig.
Gen. William A. Kobie. There were
approximately 800 Filipino farmers
that were led by Commander Anto-
nio Reyes.
The bombing of the
defensive trench that
were being defended
by the Filipinos at the
coast of Legazpi was the
reason why they were
forced to retreat to the
then St. Rafael bridge.
At the bridge, they
fought with all their
might against Ameri-
cans who were seeking
control. However, the
defenders died during
the conflict.
As depicted in the
Pylon, the Filipinos
fought only with spears
and bolos against their
powerful opponents
who used modern ar-
maments. Although
the former’s weapons
were no match against
fought with unwav-
ering courage in their
hearts to defend their
country, their home,
their freedom and ours.
They fought with their
enemies head-on, nev-
er caring what might
happen, all they cared
about is that they stood
their ground. The Filipi-
nos who fought during
the battle displayed the Core Values Commo. Jose Ma. Ambrosio Q. Ezpe-
of the Philippine Navy which is hon- leta and the Mayor of Legazpi City,
or, dedication, patriotism, solidarity, Hon. Noel E. Rosal together with the
leadership and professionalism. guest of honor PNP PBGen Anthony
S. Alcaneses joined in the commem-
Rightfully so, on the 120th anni- oration of the event. During the cere-
versary of the Battle of Legazpi, the mony, a wreath was laid at the histor-
Naval Forces Southern Luzon Parad- ical Pylon as a tribute to the bravery
ing Element and Honor Guards spear- of the Filipinos in the said battle. The
headed the ceremonial activities. ceremony has also been attended by
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 23
 various other sectors who paid their
gratitude to the fallen soldiers. Sever-
al surviving war veterans were also
present and were given equal praise.
Students who didn’t want to miss the
memorable event also came.
There are a lot to be learned in re-
membering the past and honoring it.
The act of bravery of our fellow Filipi-
nos encourages us to do better and to
have the same unwavering courage in
Advancing Technology of
Naval Defense
by: Office of the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff for C4ISR Systems, N6
The Philippine Navy is now operating in an increasingly network-based world.
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is changing the way hu-
mans interact with each other and their environment, including the way naval
operations is done.
Command and Control of forces
should have achieved information
superiority which requires seamless
flow of information exchange, situa-
tional awareness and precise technol-
ogies for evolving threatin order to
provide timely and accurate informa-
tion to decision makers and will trans-
late this decision into rapidaction by
the maneuver forces, supporting units
and the operational environment. It is
therefore imperative to achieve a com-
mon operating picture (COP) which
would require a robust and integrated
24 PHILIPPINE NAVY
the defense of our country especially
in times of great need. The past, al-
though long gone, teaches us lessons
that should be applied today.
One should bear in mind that
these people would have died for
nothing if we do not appreciate the
freedom that they fought so hard to
achieve. If we will be consumed in
today’s fad, we will forget the true es-
sence of being a Filipino.
▪ capabilities with the advances in in-
Command and Control, Communica-
tion, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance
and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) System
information structure.
The AC of NS for C4ISR Systems,
N6, commits to be on top of matters
pertaining to Command, Control,
Communications, Cyber, Intelligence,
Surveillance and Reconnaissance
(C4ISR) Systems to support for PN
Command and Control (C2), Maritime
Situational Awareness, Information
Assurance, Cyber Space Operations,
Electronic Warfare and Combat Weap-
ons Management.
The intensive effort of the PN
C4ISR organization comprising of Of-
fice N6, Naval Sea Systems Command
thru Naval Combat Systems Center,
Naval Information and Communica-
tions Technology Center (NICTC) and
WCEIS officers from various PN units
contributed to the building of C4ISR
formation and communication tech-
nology, enhance maritime situation
awareness system, combat weapon
system and tactical communications
interoperability.
Notable Projects and Activities
which are implemented and on-going
for CY 2019 under the purview of this
office:
MARITIME SITUATIONAL
AWARENESS
The Coast Watch System North
project aims to address the require-
ments for the enhancement of the
Maritime Domain Awareness capa-
bility in Northern Luzon through the
establishment and integration of CWC
North and 3 LMSs in Northern Luzon,
particularly, in Bani, Zambales, and
Pasuquin.
FRIGATE ACQUISITION (LOT 2)
The project involves the delivery
of Surface to Surface Missile (Lot 2A),
Surface to Surface missile (Lot2B) &
76mm (Lot2C1) and 30 mm(Lot2 C2)
ammunitions for the two(2) new frig-
ates platform(Lot1).
JCPV COMBAT SYSTEM
This project involves for the up-
grade of the combat and weapon sys-
tem Jacinto Class Patrol Vessel (JCPV).
The Phase 3A covers the replacement
of Fire Control System (FCS) and Sen-
sors of PS36 and PS37, the repair of
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 25

76 mm Oto Melara gun
of PS36 and PS37 and
the repair of the 25 mm
gun of the three JCPVs –
PS35, PS36 and PS37.
PN C4ISR PROJECT
The project involves
the procurement of se-
cured HF Base/ Man-
pack and VHF Hand-
held Tactical Radios for
use of battalions and
maneuver commands
among squad and fire
teams to facilitate unit internal coordi-
nation for combat, combat support and
combat service support activities. The
project further aims to fill up lacking
radio communication for information
assurance support of Fleet and Marine
Assets
CYBER DEFENSE EXERCISE
(CyDeX 2019-3)
The Philippine Navy through the
Naval Information Communication
Technology Center(NICTC) conducted
the Cyber Defense Exercise dubbed as
the CyDeX 2019-3 on 15 to 26 July 2019
at Philippine Navy Officers Clubhouse,
Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. The activi-
ty simulated possible human (hackers)
actions inside the PN Internet Protocol
Virtual Private Network (IP VPN) and
the actions and counter – actions of the
PN to protect data and communica-
tions flow within the network.
26 PHILIPPINE NAVY
The event were participated com-
ing from the CEIS Family of Philippine
Navy, Philippine Air Force, Philippine
Army, AFP Cyber Group, Philippine
Coast Guard, local government agen-
cies such as Department of Informa-
tion and Communication Technolo-
gy, Department of Interior and Local
Government, National Security Coun-
cil, National Privacy Commission,
Philippine Statistics Authority , Civic
Aviation Authority of the Philippines
and other local ICT Partners.
▪ the implementation of the PN Strategic
A CHANGE
the Navy
chose to take
by: Ms. Cheryl Joyce V Panganiban Civ HR
Whether in our personal or
professional life, change is inevitable.
Yet, change is necessary when one
aspires for progress. It is like gambling
from what is unknown, from what is
unfamiliar, and from the uncertain.
It is true that many have resisted
change – some find it difficult to break
from their routines, while others find it
futile to create plans. But the Philippine
Navy (PN) chose otherwise. The Navy
opted for change because it wanted to
see a progressive and more dynamic
organization. How did it manage its
own organizational complexity to be
able to adapt to change? It is through
Sail Plan 2020—the PN’s roadmap in
attaining its long term goals.
The PN Strategic Sail Plan 2020
created an ideal framework as to how
the Navy will sail across its six-year
commitment. But the question is how
can these plans and changes be felt by
each and every personnel across all
ranks?
SAIL PLAN CORNER
When I entered the service as a
Civilian Human Resource a few years
back, I thought the PN is also the
stereotypical government office—one
that has a highly bureaucratic and
tedious yet slow-moving system. I
was proven wrong, though. In my first
unit assignment at the Naval Research
and Technology Development Center
(NRTDC), I was able to witness how
the PN plans and aspires to become
at par with neighboring countries
through research, development, and
acquisition. Working for NRTDC
allowed me to work alongside several
teams who craft research studies,
technical assessments, strategies,
and other related communications
concerning modernization. I was
exposed to various engagements
among public, private, local,
and foreign entities about naval
acquisitions and development. I met
naval officers whose personal visions
for the improvement of the Navy
are so profound. All these projects,
including small units, contribute
to the overall goal of the Navy in
PN ROUGHDECKLOG 27

becoming strong and credible.
My perspective about the Sail Plan
became more grounded after being
assigned at the Naval Sea Systems
Command’s Office of the Assistant
Chief of Systems Staff for Plans and
Programs, SSC-5 where one of my
tasks is to handle Sail Plan-related
documents. I slowly found myself
getting more and more enthusiastic
and involved in the management and
execution of the said plan. Aside from
the trainings I had, part of my job is
ANNOUNCEMENT
or civilian human resource—in doing
their respective tasks and thereby BEST ARTICLE
accomplishing a specific goal in a pre-
defined timeline. I saw how the Navy
endeavors to polish its doctrines and
policies for future acquisitions; how
the organization plans to capacitate
their people; and how they seek to
expand their materiel.
The Sail Plan reflects a process-
driven approach rather than
leadership-based one. In effect, there
is continuity in the management.

BEST PHairOsTOffiOce Marines: Rediscovering

to monitor the Sail Plan management With the identified objectives and
and implementation of NSSC units initiatives for a certain period of time,
where I had a better avenue to grasp PN leadership, regardless of who’s By: Naval Public Aff Maritime Souls
the involvement of every personnel in charge, stays on course instead By: Lt. Col. CNP Basco PN(M)
and unit to the accomplishment of the of changing initiatives the way they
Command, rather than just seeing the deem it to be.
big picture.
Though there are still more to
I realized then what the Sail improve in the organization, the NEED TO KNOW
Plan has done for the Navy. One of change that the PN chose to take has HISTORY
the most apparent breakthroughs I valuable accomplishments that reflect
have is its influence on the processes its commitment to its internal and
embedded within the organization. external stakeholders.
Through the strategy map, objectives,
and initiatives laid down in the My service in the Navy is not long
BRP NICOLAS MAHUSAY (PC-119)
Sail Plan, processes and systems enough, I must say, to speak for big BRP Nicolas Mahusay (PC-119) was a Tomas Batilo class fast attack craft of the Philippine
became institutionalized. Simply accomplishments, yet I can say that I Navy. It was transferred by the South Korean government in 1998.[6] It was initially acquired
put, it created a distinct paradigm have seen transformation in simple as a spare parts hulk, but the need for additional ships led to its commissioning with the
Philippine Navy on July 02, 1998.
that guides every PN personnel— and little things, which I think huge
whether officer, enlisted personnel, success starts from.
▪
Note: The piece is written by one of the winners of the Sail Plan
Stories, an online essay writing competition that aims to gather brief
narratives or testimonials on how the Sail Plan has helped the organi-
zation improve in terms of capacity and capability and how the impact TRIVIA
of which to stakeholders.

About the Author: Ms. Cheryl Joyce V Panganiban Civ HR is currently assigned
at the Office of Plans and Programs, SSC-5 of the Naval Sea Systems Command as
Mayday
an Administrative Officer IV (Researcher) under the Special Studies and Research Mayday is the internationally recognized voice radio signal for ships and people in serious
Branch. She has an undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Educa- trouble at sea. Made official in 1948, it is an anglicizing of the French maidez, help me.
tion major in Literature. She also holds a degree in Master of Arts in English Lan-
guage Teaching from the De La Salle University-Manila.

PN ROUGHDECKLOG 29
28 PHILIPPINE NAVY PN ROUGHDECKLOG 29
 “As we bid farewell to the year 2019, I
Disclaimer: “The background used of
this page is for the purpose of depicting
render my snappy salute to all sailors,
the trend of the time. It was in no way
used to device or execute any scheme marines, reservists and the civilian
employees of the command for a job
or artifice to defraud; obtaining money,
property or services by means of false or
fraudulent pretenses, representations or
promises; or commiting theft, including
but not limited to theft or propriety very well done. Now that the year
information. Nevertheless, we would like to
acknowledge the owner of the background
”www.facebook.com” for its usage.”
2020 has begun, I exhort everyone to
be relentless, and honorable service
Likers as of January 31, 2020
as great challenges await the PN…

…There is no doubt in my mind that

if we work together as one Navy,
there is no reason for the command
not to perform better in 2020.”

VADM ROBERT A EMPEDRAD AFP

Flag Officer In Command, Philippine Navy
during New Year’s Call 2020

30 PHILIPPINE NAVY PN ROUGHDECKLOG 31

 NAVY 2020:
STRONG AND CREDIBLE
www.navy.mil.ph
www.facebook.com/philippinenavy
twitter.com/PN_Speak

HUKBONG DAGAT NG PILIPINAS

Headquarters Philippine Navy, Naval Station Jose Andrada
2335 Roxas Boulevard, Manila

32 PHILIPPINE NAVY