New Navy chief Javier takes command; Ezpeleta retires after nearly 40 years

MANILA — Vice Admiral Alan Javier on Friday formally assumed command as the 42nd flag officer-in-command of the Philippine Navy, succeeding Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, who retired after nearly 40 years of military service.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. presided over the change of command and retirement ceremony at the Philippine Navy Headquarters in Manila.

In his speech, Marcos recognized Ezpeleta’s leadership in advancing the Navy’s modernization and strengthening its role in the country’s external defense.

“VADM Ezpeleta led the transformation of the Philippine Navy by modernizing its capabilities and advancing its role in our country’s external defense,” Marcos said.

He cited the delivery of new naval assets under Ezpeleta’s watch, which enhanced the Navy’s ability to protect the country’s maritime interests and respond to emerging challenges.

The President noted that the Philippine Navy facilitated 19 bilateral and 14 multilateral maritime cooperative activities (MCAs) with other like-minded nations during Ezpeleta’s tenure.

Marcos expressed confidence in Javier’s ability to lead the Navy, emphasizing the importance of sustaining its growing fleet and strengthening its operational capabilities.

“I am confident that your experience will serve you well in ensuring that our growing fleet remains capable, well-supported, and ready to fulfill its mission,” Marcos told the incoming Navy chief.

“Build on the gains. Strengthen our ability to defend our territory and protect our sovereign rights. Deepen our partnerships with our allies and friends, and sustain our commitment to the welfare of every sailor and every marine,” he added.

He stressed that the Navy’s responsibility goes beyond maintaining operational readiness, as it plays a critical role in protecting the Filipino people, securing the country’s sovereignty, and preserving the integrity of its national territory.

“These responsibilities are realities that our sailors and Marines confront every day, particularly those serving on the frontlines of our maritime domain,” he said.

Javier outlined four priorities under his leadership: sustaining operational readiness; pursuing deliberate modernization to build a future-ready Navy; investing in personnel development and welfare; and strengthening partnerships and interoperability with allies, friendly forces and other government agencies.

He also vowed to build on the foundation established by Ezpeleta, particularly in advancing the Navy’s role in the country’s archipelagic defense strategy.

“We recognize that our sailors, Marines, and civilian human resources are our greatest assets, and that providing them with proper training, equipment, and protection is just as important as acquiring modern naval platforms and systems,” he said.

Prior to his position as AFP WESCOM chief, Javier served as commander of the Western Naval Command and Chief of Naval Staff.

A member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Tanglaw-Diwa Class of 1992, Javier built much of his military career as a surface warfare officer, commanding several Philippine Navy vessels, including the BRP Apollo Tiano, BRP Bonny Serrano, BRP Miguel Malvar and BRP Rajah Humabon.

Meanwhile, Ezpeleta formally retired from active military service after 39 years, seven months and 13 days in the AFP.

During the ceremony, he received the Presidential Legion of Honor (Degree of Commander) in recognition of his distinguished military career and contributions to the Philippine Navy.

A member of the PMA Sambisig Class of 1991, Ezpeleta held several key positions, including commander of Naval Forces Southern Luzon, Chief of Naval Staff and vice commander of the Philippine Navy before becoming its FOIC.