CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Marking nearly nine decades of dedicated maritime service to the nation, the Philippine Fleet (PF) celebrated its 88th founding anniversary on April 15 at Naval Operating Base–Subic, Zambales.
The event was led by Philippine Navy Flag Officer in Command, Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta PN, as guest of honor and speaker. He was joined by PF commander Rear Admiral Joe Anthony C. Orbe PN, along with flag officers, unit commanders, personnel, civilian human resources, and key stakeholders.
A highlight of the celebration was the recognition of outstanding personnel, units, ships, reservists, civilian employees, and partner stakeholders for their contributions to operational readiness and mission success.
Awardees included: • Field Grade Officer of the Year – Lieutenant Commander Rodel P. Calibara PN • Junior Officer of the Year – Lieutenant Junior Grade Mart A. Capunay PN • Petty Officer of the Year – Engineman 3rd Class Richard Louie A. Buot PN • Enlisted Personnel of the Year – Fireman 1ST Class Engineman Gamaliel Levi S. Urgello PN • Operational Unit of the Year – Littoral Combat Force • Emerging Operational Unit of the Year – Mine Warfare Group • Support Unit of the Year – Fleet Training and Doctrines Center • OCF Ship of the Year – BRP Jose Rizal (FFG14) • SAF Ship of the Year – BRP Dagupan City (LS551) • LCF Ship of the Year – BRP Gener Tinangag (PG202) • Reservist Officer of the Year – Lieutenant Commander Alex H. Verchez PN(GSC)(Res) • Reservist Enlisted Personnel of the Year – Chief Petty Officer Joelito T. Sietereales PN (Res) • CHR Supervisor of the Year – Kane Aarol P. Abenoja • CHR Employee of the Year – Melvin L. Mabutot Stakeholders of the Year: • Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority • Philippine Navy and Coast Guard Enlisted Personnel (E1–E6)Association, Inc. • Global Terminals and Development, Inc. • Dugong Alay Dugtong Buhay • Municipal Health Office–Subic • Agusuhin High School • Fisher Folks Association–Subic • Solanda Enterprises Inc. (Marine Division) • Barangay Cawag LGU • San Marcelino District Hospital • Naval Operating Base Press Corps.
In his message, Rear Admiral Orbe emphasized the Fleet’s unity and mission under the theme, “88 Years of Service: One Fleet, One Mission, One Nation.” He highlighted the Fleet’s continued commitment to excellence and national service. Vice Admiral Ezpeleta commended the Fleet’s progress and recognized its people as its greatest strength. He also acknowledged the vital support of stakeholders in achieving the Fleet’s mission.
“As we look to the future, I enjoin every member of the Philippine Fleet to remain resolute… toward a modern, multi-domain, and self-reliant naval force,” he said. As part of the celebration, the Fleet inaugurated several facilities, including lounges for officers, enlisted personnel, civilian personnel, and chief petty officers. The ribbon-cutting and blessing ceremonies were attended by senior leaders and guests.
The event also featured advancements in naval capability, including highlights from the 2025 Drone Warfare Summit. Demonstrations included the Smart IQ system and Project LAWIN, showcasing the Fleet’s growing capabilities in unmanned operations. The anniversary underscores the Philippine Fleet’s enduring role in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests and advancing operational readiness. Press release
