The Philippine Navy has installed Lieutenant Commander Kristoffer Belmonte as new Commanding Officer of BRP Rafael Pargas (PC379).
The Change of Command Ceremony took place at Navarette Hall, Naval Base Heracleo Alano, Sangley Point, Cavite City, presided over by the Commander of the Littoral Combat Force (LCF) Commodore Vincent Sibala.
During the event, outgoing Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Michael Andrew Frias formally relinquished his Command to Belmonte.
Both Officers are distinguished members of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Maragtas” Class of 2007.
“Under Frias’ leadership, the vessel demonstrated exemplary performance in various maritime operations, and it is expected that Belmonte will continue this legacy, ensuring that PC379 remains a vital asset in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests,” the report said.
Pargas is one of the Philippine Navy’s floating assets under the operational control of the Naval Task Force 71 in the Eastern Mindanao area of responsibility, responsible for conducting patrol missions needed in securing the maritime environment of the Eastern Mindanao seaboard.
