New PH Navy second-in-command named as Admiral Dela Cruz retires
The Philippine Navy has installed a new vice commander as Rear Admiral Rey Dela Cruz officially retired from military service after 37 years.

Rear Adm. Adeluis Bordado took over from Dela Cruz as the Navy vice commander in a ceremony held at the Naval Station Jose Francisco in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Monday.
Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, PN Flag Officer in Command, paid tribute to Dela Cruz's "invaluable and selfless service" as he presided over the joint Change of Chief of Office and Retirement Ceremony in honor of the retired military official.
"The year 2020 has really been one of the most challenging years that one could ever live through in both global and national history because of the COVID-19 pandemic. But the PN was able to push through with all of the simultaneous tasks this year because this Command had greatly benefitted from RAdm Dela Cruz’s swift and recognizable efforts and wisdom, which helped and supported me in many difficult decisions," Bacordo said.
Dela Cruz is a member of the Philippine Military Academy “Hinirang” Class of 1987.
He is a recipient of various awards, recognitions, and commendations including two Distinguished Service Stars, three Meritorious Achievement Medals, several Military Merit Medals, Military Commendation Medals, Plans and Operations Badges, and Command at Sea Badges.
"I am grateful for all your contributions, all your efforts, in studying, reforming and re-adjusting the priorities of our Navy so that it can be a modern and multi-capable defense force in the future," Bacordo told Dela Cruz.
Meanwhile, the Navy Chief vouched for Bordado as the new Navy vice commander, saying that he "is more than ready to assume this post."
The Flag Officer in Command enjoined Bordado to "stay focused and deliberate in our actions" as the Navy transitions from a legacy unit to a modern and multi-capable one in terms of modern assets and systems, and increased personnel capacity.
Prior to the new post, Bordado served as the chief of naval staff (CNS).
As the new Navy vice commander, Bordado is expected to act as the principal assistant of the Navy chief in the decision-making process, policy formulation and its implementation.