MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Navy inaugurated on Wednesday the newly-built Naval Detachment on Mavulis Island in Itbayat Batanes.
“The recognition and activation of Naval Detachment Mavulis during the inauguration ceremony symbolizes the commitment to uphold maritime law and order while safeguarding our maritime territories,” the Navy said in a statement.
The Navy sees the detachment as playing a strategic role in security as it is located on the northernmost tip of the country.
According to the Navy, the Naval Detachment Mavulis is poised to play a crucial role in safeguarding our nation’s waters and the protection of our maritime interests.
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Sen. Francis Tolentino, along with military and local government officials, attended the event.
“The Philippine Navy has been a formidable bulwark that protected the nation from all sorts of threats,” Tolentino, who chairs the Senate Special Panel on Maritime and Admiralty Zones, said in his speech at the ceremony.
“Now that the stakes are higher, I fully understand that you have to be equipped and trained in order to multiply your force and stand your ground against those who attempt to trample upon our independence,” he added.
Also attending the event were Batanes Gov. Marilou Cayco, Commodore Francisco Tagamolila Jr., commander of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon; Lieutenant General Fernyl Buca, commander of the Northern Luzon Command; and Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr., the flag officer of the Navy.