A new chapter in Philippine naval leadership began on Friday, November 13, 2026, as Vice Admiral Alan M. Javier formally assumed command of the Philippine Navy during a Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony held at Naval Station Jose Andrada along Roxas Boulevard in Manila.
At a glance
- Event: Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony, led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
- Date and place: Friday, November 13, 2026, Naval Station Jose Andrada, 2335 Roxas Boulevard, Manila
- New chief: Vice Admiral Alan M. Javier, welcomed as the Navy's 42nd Flag Officer-in-Command
- Outgoing chief: Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta, recognized for two years of service as Flag Officer in Command
- Call: continued strengthening of maritime security operations to keep Philippine waters safe and protect sovereign rights
- Source: Presidential Communications Office
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the event, which also marked the retirement of Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta as the Navy's outgoing Flag Officer-in-Command, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) reported.
Outgoing Chief Honored at Ceremony
According to the PCO, President Marcos formally acknowledged Vice Admiral Ezpeleta's two years of service leading the Philippine Navy. The President extended his gratitude to the retiring admiral for his contributions before receiving the incoming chief.
The PCO noted that during Ezpeleta's leadership, the Navy made significant strides in external defense, bolstered its presence in the West Philippine Sea, brought in modern naval assets, upgraded facilities, and broadened international maritime partnerships.
The PCO said these achievements are meant to serve as a stronger foundation upon which the incoming leadership can build and advance the Navy's overall readiness and capabilities.
Javier Welcomed as 42nd Flag Officer-in-Command
Vice Admiral Javier was formally installed as the 42nd Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy, succeeding Ezpeleta who has since retired from active service.
President Marcos formally welcomed Javier to the post and called for continued strengthening of the Navy's maritime security operations, the PCO reported.
Marcos Urges Navy to Uphold Maritime Mandate
During his remarks at the ceremony, President Marcos called on the Navy to press ahead with its maritime security responsibilities. The PCO reported that the President stressed the importance of keeping Philippine waters safe, defending the country's sovereign rights, and protecting the welfare of Filipinos.
The PCO further stated that the government remains committed to ongoing modernisation efforts and continued investment in Navy personnel to prepare the service branch for evolving maritime challenges and the protection of national interests.
Source: Presidential Communications Office