VICE ADMIRAL Roy Abitria Echeverria conducted a testimonial visit to Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) and the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) on Monday, Feb. 9, marking one of his final official engagements before his upcoming retirement.
The visit served as both a gesture of gratitude and a reaffirmation of the long-standing cooperation between the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Navy—partnerships strengthened throughout his years in maritime operations, humanitarian response, inter-agency coordination, and information sharing.
During his remarks, Echeverria expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended by NFEM commander Commodore Ireneo Battung, noting that Eastern Mindanao has been a defining chapter of his service.
Having been assigned to various stations across the region—many of them in demanding environments—he recalled the strong inter-service camaraderie forged in Mindanao.
Echeverria and Battung were classmates from the PMA “Maalab” Class of 1993.
“This visit is meaningful to me,” Echeverria said. “Mindanao shaped my character as an officer. It is where I learned resilience, teamwork, and mission focus—values I carried throughout my career. As I prepare to retire, it is only fitting to return and thank those who have been partners in safeguarding our seas and communities.”
Battung, together with NFEM officers and personnel, rendered battalion-sized honors followed by a simple reception recognizing Echeverria’s contributions to joint maritime efforts, interoperability, and engagements with allied nations such as Australia, the United States, and the European Union.
After the NFEM visit, Echeverria proceeded to the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao, his former command, where he was welcomed by its current commander, Commodore Philipps Soria.
Throughout his decades-long career, Echeverria served in both shore and shipboard assignments and commanded multiple Coast Guard stations across Mindanao—Zamboanga, Jolo, Tawi-Tawi, Cotabato, General Santos, and Davao, among others.
He also served as commander of Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) from 2018 to 2020.
His leadership emphasized integrity, operational excellence, and mission accomplishment while staying grounded and true to one’s principles.
As he enters retirement, Echeverria highlighted gratitude, the friendships formed along the way, and a profound sense of fulfillment. “My heart is full of thanks, only gratitude,” he shared. “It was very fulfilling. I’ve done things mostly on my own terms and served with a full heart.”
Echeverria, who now resides in Davao City with his family, is scheduled to retire later this month at the headquarters of the Philippine Coast Guard in Manila.
