President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has promoted Commodore Jay Tarriela, the outspoken spokesperson for the West Philippine Sea, to the rank of rear admiral.
The promotion was confirmed in a letter signed by Acting Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, which also included the elevation of Commodores Weniel Abarquez Azcuna and Oliver Sy Tanseco to the same rank.
Tarriela’s rise comes amid his prominent role in the Philippines’ maritime security stance, especially regarding the ongoing disputes in the West Philippine Sea.
He has frequently briefed the media on incidents involving Chinese aggression in the area and sparked diplomatic tension with China after posting a satirical image of President Xi Jinping.
Despite the Chinese Embassy’s protest over the post, Tarriela defended it as part of legitimate public discourse on China’s actions in the contested waters.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 1, 2026
TARRIELA PROMOTED TO REAR ADMIRAL AMID RISING WEST PHILIPPINE SEA TENSIONS
Latest from News
Pride PH and the Quezon City government will hold an expanded Pride Festival at UP Diliman,
Taiwan has called on the Philippines and Japan to consult with it regarding their planned maritime
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) held a send-off ceremony for BRP Gabriela Silang and BRP Miguel
Senate media practitioners have condemned Sen. Rodante Marcoleta for accusing mainstream journalists of being “bayaran” or
Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara has launched Project Handa to improve nationwide school readiness