President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recognized the valuable contributions of outgoing Philippine Navy (PN) Flag Officer-in-Command Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. as he welcomed his successor, Vice Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Ezpeleta, during a change of command and retirement ceremony on Friday.
In his speech, President Marcos highlighted that Adaci joined the PN in 2022 with a commitment to developing a modern, multi-capable naval force amid challenging circumstances.
“His commitment, leadership, and vision has significantly strengthened our naval capabilities and enhanced our readiness to face the rapidly evolving challenges of today. He was exactly what this country needed: mild-mannered and calm,” President Marcos said.
“His presence of mind unshakeable despite provocations and attempts to escalate tensions. It is through his leadership that we remain firm in asserting our rights in the maritime domain while keeping to our responsibility of safeguarding lives and promoting regional peace and stability,” he added.
President Marcos elaborated on Adaci’s “commendable accomplishments,” particularly his modernization efforts, which equipped the naval forces with advanced assets and technologies, bolstering the country’s defense posture and enhancing its humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities.
The President also emphasized Adaci’s role in championing regional cooperation and partnership by fostering stronger ties with the Philippines’ allies and neighbors and promoting collaborative efforts for peace and stability in the country’s maritime zones.
“Aside from improving operations, Vice Admiral Adaci sought to strengthen the Philippine Navy as an institution, lifting the morale of all officers, troops, and civilian personnel,” the Chief Executive said.
“He is attuned to the needs of his people. He supported their training, their growth, and welfare, ensuring that the women and men of the Philippine Navy remain professional and capable of heeding the call of duty,” he added.
President Marcos also expressed his gratitude Adaci’s family, acknowledging that their support played an instrumental role in inspiring him to serve the nation better.
“Vice Admiral Adaci, you leave behind substantial reports of your legacy. Even though not everyone will have the opportunity to read them, those words will come alive in the stories shared by those who served with you,” he said.
“On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you for your exemplary and passionate service. We wish you fair winds and following seas as you embark onto your next journey,” he added.
Adaci served as the PN’s Flag Officer-in-Command from November 2022 to November 2024. His past roles include Commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao from October 2020 to November 2022, and Commander of the Fleet-Marine Ready Force from March 2018 to October 2020.
During Adaci’s retirement ceremony, President Marcos conferred on him the Philippine Legion of Honor, Degree of Commander.
Before concluding his speech, President Marcos warmly welcomed Ezpeleta, expressing confidence that his leadership would continue the high standards set by his predecessor.
“As Vice Admiral Adaci has demonstrated, your predecessors are always difficult acts to follow, but given your competence, your experience, and mental fortitude, I am confident you will continue to lead the Navy with integrity and surpass any challenges that you might confront,” President Marcos told Ezpeleta.
“I look forward to working with you and I give you my full support as you build on your legacy. Let us work together as we steer the future in the right direction for a more secure, advanced, and prosperous Bagong Pilipinas,” he concluded.
Prior to becoming Flag Officer-in-Command, Ezpeleta served as the Vice Commander of the naval forces from August 2024 to November 2024, Chief of Staff of the PN from August 2022 to August 2024, and Commander of the Naval Forces Southern Luzon from September 2019 to August 2022. (PND)
