THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has designated a female officer as its spokesperson, the first ever in its history.
The PCG yesterday said the designation of Capt. Noemie Cayabyab as PCG spokesperson underscores the agency’s “firm commitment to advancing gender equality and elevating women’s role in the organization.”
“The steady rise of women in leadership positions in the PCG is the culmination of decades of perseverance, shattering glass ceilings, and breaking barriers in the 21st century,” said PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan.
Cayabyab was Deputy Chief of Coast Guard Staff for Education and Training before becoming spokesperson. She succeeded Commodore Alger Ricafrente who took over as acting PCG spokesman in September last year, in concurrent capacity as Deputy Chief of Coast Guard Staff for International Affairs.
The PCG said Cayabyab will lead “communications on PCG’s key initiatives, represent the organization in national and global conversations, and amplify the organizational efforts towards a more diverse and empowered future.”
“With her professional endeavor and countless achievements rooted in excellence, Captain Cayabyab bears a symbol of dedication, strength and impact — qualities that make her a natural fit for this trailblazing role,” the PCG said.
Cayabyab, who hails from Romblon.
is married to another PCG officer, Capt. Jerome Cayabyab, superintendent of the Coast Guard Non-Officer School. She is a member of the Coast Guard Officers’ Course “Sandiwa” Class 07-05.
Cayabyab has held key positions in the PCG, including commander of the Vessel Safety Service Unit where she oversaw the review and approval of the now updated pre-departure inspection checklist for domestic vessels.
The PCG said Cayabyab pioneered the establishment of the Pension and Gratuity Management Center (now the Retirement and Benefits Administration Service).
“Academically, Captain Cayabyab has demonstrated excellence, consistently earning Dean’s List honors during her undergraduate studies,” the PCG also said.
Cayabyab received the Dean’s Award for outstanding achievement in Master of Policy Studies in Maritime Safety and Security Policy at the National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies in Tokyo, Japan.
