A new batch of probationary ensigns has joined the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) medical team as deployed in various swabbing centers in the country.
A total of 15 probationary ensigns, composed of eight nurses and seven medical technologists, took oath Tuesday, August 18 afternoon at the Coast Guard national headquarters before being deployed as frontliners.
The newly-recruited health workers, Admiral George Ursabia Jr., Coast Guard commandant, said, will strengthen the PCG Medical Service which has approximately 200 active medical personnel serving at the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic.
Ursabia welcomed the newly-appointed probationary ensigns “who joined the service in such a time when their technical expertise and valuable service are greatly needed for the safety and welfare of the general public.”
"Congratulations for joining us. You have chosen the right track in your life. Minsan lang tayo nag-de-decide kung ano ang maganda para sa ating buhay (We rarely decide on what’s good for us). I tell you, ladies and gentlemen, you have made the perfect choice by joining the Philippine Coast Guard — a noble service where you can really help our country and our people," Ursabia said as he led the oath taking ceremony.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade also welcomed the new probationary ensigns in his virtual speech where he affirmed that “the PCG will not only increase in number and resources, but more importantly, deepen its impact on the life of every Filipino, most especially in this time of pandemic.”
Also present at the ceremony were Vice Admiral Leopoldo Laroya, deputy commandant for Operation; Vice Admiral Lyndon Latorre, deputy commandant for Administration; and Rear Admiral Rolando Lizor Punzalan, chief of Coast Guard Staff.
On July 30, a total of 21 probationary ensigns, composed of 19 medical technologists, one psychometrician, and one physician, joined the PCG Medical Service in providing proactive public service to win the country's battle against the dreaded disease.