Exec vows to continue asserting territorial integrity as Navy marks 123rd anniv

The Philippine Navy on Thursday, May 20, commemorated its 123rd anniversary at the Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila, with its top official vowing to continue asserting the country's territorial integrity.

Navy flag officer-in-command vice admiral Giovanni Bacordo spearheaded the celebration that commenced with a flag raising ceremony followed by a prayer and the synchronized blowing of ships' sirens.

The solemn sequence was simultaneously observed in all Navy units nationwide to pay tribute to all sailors, marines, frontliner personnel, and medical workers who died in the line of duty.

"I am confident that the Philippine Navy’s ability to stay committed in serving the interests of our maritime nation is unquestionable," Bacordo said.

"We continue to invest our time, effort, and all available resources in order to assert our national security agenda by protecting our country’s territorial integrity and sovereignty," he added.

Bacordo issued the statement amid continued presence of Chinese vessels in disputed territories in the West Philippine Sea. -Ma. Angelica Garcia/MDM, GMA News