Updated at 6:28 P.M.
MANILA, Philippines — Vice Admiral Rommel Supangan is the new commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), replacing Ronnie Gil Gavan, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced on Monday.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the change-of-command and retirement ceremony for Supangan and Gavan at the Coast Guard Fleet in the Port Area, City of Manila, on Monday.
Supangan, a graduate of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Marilag” Class of 1995, has served in the PCG for more than three decades, holding key leadership positions in maritime operations, environmental protection, and strategic affairs.
Before his appointment, he served as commander of the PCG Marine Environmental Protection Command from February to October 2026 and commander of the Coast Guard Fleet from June 2025 to October 2026.
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He also served as acting director of the Coast Guard Strategic Studies and International Affairs Center from June 2025 to February 2026 and previously headed Coast Guard District Palawan.
Supangan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Naval System Engineering from the PMA and a Master of Science in Maritime Affairs, majoring in Marine Environment and Ocean Management, from the World Maritime University in Sweden.
Among his distinctions are the PMA Cavalier Award for Coast Guard Operations under the Senior Officer Category and unit commendations for Coast Guard District Palawan.
Marcos commends Gavan
In his speech during the ceremony, Marcos commended Gavan for his leadership and more than three decades of public service, particularly his contributions to strengthening maritime security and emergency response capabilities.
“We are here today to recognize a man who has dedicated his entire career to public service,” Marcos said.
“For the past three years, Admiral Gavan has led this institution with dedication, professionalism, and a firm commitment to protecting our people and our waters,” the president added.
Marcos also highlighted improvements in the Coast Guard’s search-and-rescue operations, disaster preparedness, and maritime safety programs under Gavan’s leadership.
During Gavan’s tenure, the PCG conducted nearly 5,000 search-and-rescue responses and saved 22,784 people from maritime emergencies.
“Admiral Gavan, thank you very much. You led the Philippine Coast Guard with integrity and dedication to duty. Under your leadership, it has become more prepared, resilient, and reliable,” Marcos said. /mcm