NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila – The Secretary of National Defense, Gilberto C Teodoro Jr, visits the country's northernmost outposts, specifically Naval Detachment (ND) Basco, ND Mavulis and the soon-to-be completed multi-agency outpost in Mahatao, all in Batanes on February 6.   He also visited the Lalo airport and Port Irene in Cagayan. The visit comes amid the government's focus on enhancing the country's external defense posture.

With the SND are Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Gen Romeo Brawner Jr., Navy Chief VAdm Toribio Adaci Jr, NOLCOM Commander, LtGen Fernyl Buca, Naval Forces Northern Luzon commander Commo Francisco Tagamolila Jr and other senior military and police officials in the area. Batanes Governor Marilou Cayco and other local officials welcomed the group of the Defense Secretary.

Operational readiness to respond to various challenges of these outposts and facilities are part of the survey and inspection of the Defense Secretary, all in support of the AFP's mandate to secure the country's interests.

Sec. Teodoro Jr. in his remarks, highlights the increase in the AFP's operational tempo and recognizes the importance of Batanes in the defense and security of the country, calling for more presence.

The SND also had the opportunity to visit AFP troops stationed in these detachments to personally convey the government's recognition of their service, dedication, and professionalism in ensuring the security of the northernmost part of the country.

PUBLISHED BY:    Naval Public Affairs Office (NPAO) CAPT BENJO F NEGRANZA PN(GSC) Director, Naval Public Affairs Office