Marcos appoints Rommel Supangan as new PCG Commandant

MANILA— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has appointed Vice Admiral Rommel Supangan as the new Commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard.

Supangan succeeds Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, who is retiring from service.

Marcos led the Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony at the Port Area in Manila on Monday.

Supangan is a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Marilag” Class of 1995.

He has served in the PCG for more than three decades— holding key leadership positions in maritime operations, environmental protection, and strategic affairs.

Before his appointment, Supangan served as Commander of the PCG Marine Environmental Protection Command from February to October 2026 and Commander of the Coast Guard Fleet from June 2025 to October 2026.

He also served as Acting Director of the Coast Guard Strategic Studies and International Affairs Center from June 2025 to February 2026 and previously headed the Coast Guard District Palawan.

Supangan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Naval System Engineering from the PMA and a Master of Science in Maritime Affairs, major in Marine Environment and Ocean Management, from the World Maritime University in Sweden.

Among his distinctions are the PMA Cavalier Award for Coast Guard Operations under the Senior Officer Category and unit commendations for Coast Guard District Palawan.

During the Change of Command Ceremony, Marcos thanked Gavan for his years of service and directed Supangan to continue his legacy.

“Congratulations on your appointment. I am confident that you will build in the achievements of your predecessor, with the full support of this administration,” Marcos said.

“Let us continue this legacy with the same courage, discipline, and commitment. Let us keep watch over our seas,” he said.

Supangan is the 31st commandant of the Philippine Coast Guard.