Duterte names George Ursabia as Philippine Coast Guard commandant

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte appointed Vice-Admiral George Ursabia as the new Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) commandant, taking the place of retiring Admiral Joel Garcia.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque confirmed the appointment of Ursabia in a statement.

Duterte signed Ursabia’s appointment paper on Monday, the day Garcia official retires.

“We are confident that the appointment of Mr. Ursabia will bring the PCG closer to its vision of being a world-class guardian of the sea,” Roque said.

“We wish the new Commandant good luck as he begins to lead the PCG in this challenging time,” he added.

Ursabia bested two other contenders to be the PCG’s 29th commandant.