SANGLEY POINT, Cavite City - Vice President Sara Duterte underscored the role of special operations forces as strong partners in securing the nation’s sovereignty and protecting the people’s freedom.

Duterte was the guest of honor at the Philippine Naval Special Operations Command (Navsocom) Joint Graduation Ceremony of SEAL Qualification Training (SQT) Class 15 and Basic Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Course (BNEOD) Class 20 at Naval Base Heracleo Alano here on Wednesday.

She described the 30 SQT Class 15 and 15 BNEOD Class 20 graduates as “the latest batch of warriors” who have undergone a rigorous training, considered as one of the toughest military selection programs in the world.

She acknowledged the efforts of the special operations forces in advocating for national security over the past years from rescuing hostages from terrorists, liquidating a high-ranking terrorist leader in Mindanao and raiding a narcotics laboratory in Manila.

“Truly, you have played a significant role in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other national security challenges. These displays of bravery and heroism have confirmed our faith in your capacity in dealing with modern-day threats to our national security,” the Vice President said.

She said the importance of special operations will increasingly grow as the country confronts greater threats to national security and the international geopolitical landscape continues to evolve.

“I am confident you will become invaluable assets to Navsocom and the Philippine Navy as you dedicate your skills to safeguarding our country from all foreign and domestic threats,” Duterte said.

The Vice President also thanked the instructors and staff for their commitment and hardwork in preparing the graduates for a life of selfless service for the greater good of the nation.

“I salute the Navsocom leaders for their dedication and commitment to training these outstanding young men and women,” she said.

Navsocom is a special operations unit of the Philippine Navy that specializes in Sea, Air, Land (SEAL) operations ranging from reconnaissance, close combat, demolition, intelligence and underwater operations in support of overall naval operations.

Prior to the ceremony, the Vice President witnessed the graduates’ demonstration of the Navsocom capabilities.

Last year, Duterte was also the guest of honor of Navsocom’s 66th Founding Anniversary.

OVP Media