Duterte appoints Joel Garcia as new PCG commandant

President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed Vice Admiral Joel Sarsiban Garcia as the new commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

According to PCG spokesman Captain Armand Balilo on Tuesday, Duterte signed Garcia's appointment paper last October 21.

"The Command is very thankful to the President for choosing a visionary leader who cares for the welfare of his subordinates and is passionate in accomplishing the PCG's mandate," Balilo said.

Malacañang expressed confidence in Garcia's ability to lead the PCG.

"We are confident that the incoming commandant, a man of vast knowledge, competence and integrity, would continue to lead and advance the PCG to greater heights," presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said.

Garcia, who is set to formally assume post Tuesday afternoon, will replace Admiral Elson Hermogino, who had served 38 years in the Armed Forces of the Philippines as well as in the PCG.

Prior to his appointment, Garcia, a graduate of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy, served as the PCG's deputy commandant for administration.

Meanwhile, Balilo expressed gratitude to Hermogino who had "steered the organization in achieving great feats towards the advancement of the Command."

"Admiral Hermogino has truly served his entire military service with selfless devotion for the benefit of the Filipino nation," Balilo said. — with Virgil Lopez/KG/RSJ, GMA News