Tarriela promoted to rear admiral

MANILA, Philippines — Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesman for the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Commodore Jay Tarriela has been promoted to rear admiral.

The appointment was confirmed in a communication from Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.

Signed by President Marcos, a copy of the letter was received by Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez. The PCG is under the Department of Transportation.

The letter also confirmed the appointment of senior PCG officers Weniel Abarquez Azcuna and Oliver Sy Tanseco as rear admirals.

The PCG-WPS Transparency Group welcomed Tarriela’s promotion, citing his leadership in advancing the government’s transparency campaign in the WPS, which it said “has significantly strengthened public trust and reinforced our nation’s maritime interests.”

Tarriela has been at the forefront of the Philippines’ efforts to counter disinformation and assert its maritime rights.

He earlier figured in a word war with the Chinese embassy in Manila over his vocal stance against what he described as Chinese maritime aggression in the WPS.

In January, the embassy filed a diplomatic protest over Tarriela’s social media post featuring a caricature of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Despite allegations of smear campaigning against China, the new rear admiral defended his actions as a factual counter to Chinese narratives.

He stressed there would be “no toning down” on the issue of maritime rights and sovereignty in the WPS.

With a reported 94-percent public approval rating, Tarriela said the PCG would continue its public awareness campaign and efforts to dispel disinformation about the WPS.

“The government’s transparency efforts were not meant to humiliate or provoke China, but to inform the public that it is their government that violates international law and puts ordinary fishermen and maritime defense forces at risk,” Tarriela said.

Members of the House “Young Guns” also extended their congratulations to Tarriela on his promotion from commodore to rear admiral.

Deputy Speaker and La Union Rep. Paolo Ortega V, Zambales Rep. Jefferson Khonghun and Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong praised Tarriela’s “exemplary service, unwavering dedication, and bold leadership” as a PCG spokesman and key figure in the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea.

They added that his steadfast commitment to truth, accountability and the defense of Philippine rights has made him a symbol of courage and resolve amid ongoing regional challenges.

“We salute Rear Admiral Jay Tarriela for his fearless advocacy and tireless service in defending our West Philippine Sea,” the lawmakers said.

“In an era where transparency and firmness are essential to protecting our sovereignty, his voice has been instrumental in rallying national and international support for our just cause. This promotion is richly deserved and reflects the high regard of the President and the nation for his integrity and patriotism,” they added.

The lawmakers said they look forward to continued collaboration with Tarriela and the PCG in pursuing a secure, prosperous and sovereign Philippines. — Jose Rodel Clapano