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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Recto named PCG auxiliary vice admiral; vows budget boost for 108,867-strong force

Recto named PCG auxiliary vice admiral; vows budget boost for 108,867-strong force

Published Feb 28, 2026 04:36 pm
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
(Photo: Philippine Coast Guard)
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto was formally conferred the rank of Auxiliary Vice Admiral by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), it was announced on Saturday, Feb. 28.
The donning and oath-taking ceremony was held last Feb. 26 aboard the PCG’s flagship multi-role response vessel, the BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701).
Recto reaffirmed the administration’s support for the PCG as he underscored Malacañang’s direct backing for maritime safety and modernization programs amid continuing security challenges at sea.
“I stand firmly behind you, every day, in every decision that strengthens you, affirming President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s full support for the PCG,” he said.
Recto, a former senator and long-time lawmaker who also headed the Department of Finance (DOF) before joining the Marcos Cabinet, was inducted into the PCG Auxiliary (PCGA), placing him in a formal role within the Coast Guard’s support structure.
The PCGA is a volunteer and reserve support arm composed of professionals from the private sector and government. Its members provide expertise, vessels, and logistical assistance during maritime patrols, disaster response, and community outreach and it expands the Coast Guard’s reach without adding to its regular uniformed roster.
Also inducted into the PCGA Executive Squadron were Acting Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Rolando Toledo as Auxiliary Rear Admiral, and Auxiliary Commodores Andrea Celene Magtalas, Robin Gumasing, Maria Luwalhati Dorotan-Tiuseco, Cherry Mae Gonzales, and actor Luis Manzano, Recto’s stepson.
During his remarks, Recto said this year’s budget signals a decisive step toward strengthening manpower and readiness.
He said the allocation will build up the ranks with trained and qualified personnel and create new positions.
He described this as the start of a long-term objective to establish a standing force of 108,867 uniformed personnel, which is equivalent to three Coast Guard personnel per kilometer of the Philippine coastline.
The Philippines has one of the longest coastlines in the world and the PCG plays a central role in maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, environmental protection, and the assertion of sovereign rights in contested waters.
Recto also assured the provision of sufficient funding for the PCG's Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) to sustain day-to-day operational requirements.
He reiterated government support for modernizing the fleet and enhancing its capability to respond to emerging maritime and security challenges.
PCG Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan thanked Recto for supporting the agency’s modernization efforts.
He said such support enables the continued enhancement of PCG capabilities through the acquisition of modern maritime assets, strengthened human resource development, and the advancement of command, control, and operational systems.

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