First female PCG aviator given Towns award

MANILA, Philippines — The first female aviator of the Philippine Coast Guard was among the 14 women from various fields that were given The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service or Towns Award this year.

In a ceremony in Pasay City on Oct. 22, Commodore Christine Pauline Bergaño-Diciano received the Towns Award for maritime law enforcement and public service.

Diciano, PCG Leadership and Doctrine Development Center director, has been instrumental in promoting inclusivity and organizational development within the Coast Guard service and championed the inclusion of the hijab in the Uniform Manual, reflecting respect for cultural and religious diversity among female Muslim personnel.

She joined the 189 other women awardees who were given the Towns Awards since 1974.

The PCG said Diciano demonstrated exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic as battle captain of Task Group Resource Management, Logistics and Administration.

The unit managed the efficient allocation of resources, logistics coordination and administrative operations that sustained the PCG’s swift and reliable pandemic response.

According to the Coast Guard Education, Training and Doctrine Command, Diciano’s achievement reflects President Marcos’ vision of a service where women stand proudly as leaders, innovators and protectors of the nation.

“The conferment of the Towns Award to a Philippine Coast Guard officer is not merely a personal accolade. It represents the hearts and feats of (the PCG that) I have had the honor of serving for the past 24 years,” Diciano said.

In a statement, the PCG said Diciano’s award proves that Filipino women continue to serve as catalysts for change, unity and progress.

“The PCG proudly honors Commodore Diciano for her outstanding contribution to public service and for inspiring future generations of women in uniform,” the PCG added.