Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr., Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy (PN) has begun touring different naval camps to bid adieu ahead of his retirement next month.
Adaci will retire on Nov. 24 upon completing the two-year tour of duty for commanders of major services, including the navy, as provided by the law.
The 57-year-old officer returned to the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) where he was honored during a farewell visit at Camp General Navarro, the home of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), in Zamboanga City last Oct. 10.
Adaci reflected on his extensive naval career, beginning as a junior officer in one of the navy vessels under the former Naval District IV (former name of NFWM). He recounted his journey through various leadership roles, including serving as the skipper of multiple vessels assigned to NFWM and as deputy commander of Westmincom.
“Serving alongside such dedicated professionals has been the highlight of my career. Together, we have navigated challenges and achieved remarkable milestones for our Navy and our nation,” Adaci said.
Adaci was appointed as the 40th Navy chief on Nov. 24, 2022 after serving as the commander of the NFWM for two years. He also occupied key positions in the military including as commander of Naval Installation Command; commander of Fleet-Marine Ready Force; deputy commander of Westmincom; and Fleet Inspector General.
He is a lawyer and a proud member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Makatao” Class of 1989. He specializes on naval operations, education and training, and personnel management and administration; and hails from the province of Ifugao.
Adaci’s stint as the PN chief was highlighted by the navy’s relentless drive to defend the country’s territorial integrity in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) amid China’s presence.
His leadership priorities are focused on sustainment of the navy’s gains and policy priorities according to the Philippine Navy Sail Plan 2028; amplifying competence-building approaches through efficient training of personnel; rationalization of the organization; bases development, real estate management and administration; naval diplomacy; and the building the new foundations for the Navy’s Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP).
Rear Admiral Francisco G. Tagamolila Jr., commander of NFWM, paid tribute to Adaci’s distinguished service alongside his command team, staff, and commanding officers of units afloat.
Aside from Adaci, four other officers are set to retire this year.
Lt. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan, who is serving as the military’s No. 3 man or Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) deputy chief of staff, will retire on Oct. 16; Lt. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Westmincom, on November 23; Philippine Air Force (PAF) chief Lt. Gen. Stephen Parreño on December 20; and Vice Adm. Alberto Carlos, who is currently on a floating status after being replaced as commander of Western Command in May, on Dec. 31.
Their replacements are now beling deliberated by the Board of Generals (BOGs), according to AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.