BRIG. Gen. Michael Romero (right) with Naval Air Warfare Force Commander Rear Admiral Emilio Orio. (MR FB)
SUBIC BAY – Newly promoted Brig. Gen. Michael Romero of the Philippine Air Force Reserve Force was recently honored by the Philippine Navy for his “exceptionally meritorious and sustained service” in supporting naval aviation development in the country.
Romero received the Naval Aviator Wings, Command-at-Sea Badge, and Surface Warfare Badge in ceremonies held April 20 at the Philippine Fleet headquarters here and last April 24 at the Naval Air Warfare Force in Sangley, Cavite.
The three awards, which are considered as Navy’s rarest and highest qualifications, were unprecedented in the history of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Navy.
The badges represent core areas of naval operations — aviation, command at sea, and surface warfare— and are typically associated with separate career tracks within the Navy.
Philippine Fleet commander Rear Admiral Joe Anthony Orbe conferred the Command-at-Sea and Surface Warfare badges to Romero with the approval of Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Jose Ambrosio Ezpeleta.
The Naval Aviator Wings were awarded by Naval Air Warfare Force Commander Rear Admiral Emilio Orio.
The conferment, covered by General Orders No. 181 dated April 15, 2026, cited Romero’s “exceptionally meritorious and sustained service” in supporting naval aviation development and enhancing interoperability between the Navy and the Air Force.
Romero received the Naval Aviator Wings for his contributions to maritime aviation, including flight operations, pilot training, and air support. The Command-at-Sea Badge denotes leadership in directing naval forces under operational conditions, while the Surface Warfare Badge signifies proficiency in shipboard operations and fleet coordination.