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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider VP Duterte hails bravery, heroism of special ops forces

VP Duterte hails bravery, heroism of special ops forces

Published Aug 23, 2023 08:51 am

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte on Wednesday, Aug. 23, recognized the bravery and heroism of the country’s special operations forces, saying they play a vital role in securing national sovereignty.

VPSD_Navsocom.jpgVice President Sara Duterte at the graduation ceremony of Navsocom's SEAL SQT Class 15 and BNEOD Class 20 on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 2023. (OVP photo)

“Truly, you have played a significant role in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other national security challenges,” Duterte said in her speech during the Philippine Naval Special Operations Command’s (Navsocom) joint graduation ceremony held in Sangley Point, Cavite City.

She spoke as a guest of honor before members of the command’s Sea, Air, Land (SEAL) Qualification Training (SQT) Class 15 and Basic Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Course (BNEOD) Class 20 at Naval Base Heracleo Alano.

The Vice President described the new graduates as “the latest batch of warriors” who have undergone a rigorous training, regarded as one of the world’s toughest military selection programs.

In honoring the special operations forces, she cited their efforts in advocating for national security from rescuing hostages from terrorists, neutralizing a high-ranking terrorist leader in Mindanao, and raiding a narcotics laboratory in Manila in previous years.

“These displays of bravery and heroism have confirmed our faith in your capacity in dealing with modern-day threats to our national security,” Duterte said in her speech.

She said the importance of special operations will increasingly grow with the continued threats to national security and evolving international geopolitical landscape.

“I am confident you will become invaluable assets to Navsocom and the Philippine Navy as you dedicate your skills to safeguarding our country from all foreign and domestic threats,” Duterte said.

The official also paid tribute to the command’s instructors for their commitment and hardwork in training the graduates.

“I salute the Navsocom leaders for their dedication and commitment to training these outstanding young men and women,” she said.

Navsocom is a special operations unit of the Philippine Navy that specializes in SEAL operations ranging from reconnaissance, close combat, demolition, intelligence and underwater operations.

Prior to the ceremony, the Vice President, who was also the guest of honor of Navsocom’s 66th anniversary last year, also witnessed the graduates’ demonstration of their capabilities on Wednesday.

Related Tags

VP DUTERTE Navsocom special operations forces graduation ceremony National security heroism
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