Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao

04/08/2026

LOOK | NFEM Supports Successful Joint Law Enforcement Operations in Davao Oriental

The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM), through its Intelligence Unit, successfully supported two (2) intelligence-driven joint law enforcement operations in Davao Oriental that resulted in the arrest of the province's Top 1 Regional Most Wanted Person, the apprehension of two individuals involved in the illegal trade of smuggled ci******es, and the seizure of approximately ₱3.835 million worth of contraband.

On August 1, 2026, NFEM, in coordination with the DORPIT Regional Intelligence Unit 11, Tarragona Municipal Police Station (MPS), and the 15th Special Action Company, 11th Special Action Battalion, arrested Arnold Cabitay, alias "TOTO," at Purok Langasiwan Dos, Barangay Ompaol, Tarragona, Davao Oriental.

Cabitay was arrested pursuant to three Warrants of Arrest for violations of Article 248 (Murder) and Article 249 (Homicide) of the Revised Penal Code under Criminal Case Nos. 7267-17, 6959-17, and 8290-20. He is listed as Davao Oriental's Top 1 Regional Most Wanted Person and was subsequently turned over to the Tarragona MPS for proper documentation and disposition.

In a separate operation on August 3, 2026, NFEM participated in a Joint Customs and Anti-Smuggling Operation (JCAO) led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Davao Oriental Provincial Field Unit in collaboration with PIT RIU Davao Oriental and in coordination with the San Isidro Municipal Police Station.

The operation resulted in the arrest of William Esmain Alibbo and Nadzmer Ussam Indih during an entrapment operation after they were caught transporting and selling GREENHILL ci******es without the required graphic health warnings. Authorities seized 59 master cases of GREENHILL ci******es with an estimated market value of ₱3,835,000.00, one closed van truck, and 60 pieces of ₱1,000 boodle bills used during the operation. The suspects were turned over to the San Isidro MPS for documentation and proper disposition and will face charges for violations of Republic Act No. 10643 (Graphic Health Warnings Law) and Section 263 of Republic Act No. 8424 (Unlawful Possession or Removal of Articles Subject to Excise Tax without Payment of the Tax), as amended.

NFEM remains committed to supporting interagency initiatives that uphold the rule of law, protect legitimate trade, and contribute to a safe and secure maritime environment.

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready

03/08/2026

IN PHOTOS | NFEM Reaffirms Commitment to International Humanitarian Law During Simultaneous Flag Raising Ceremony

The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao joined in the Simultaneous Flag Raising Ceremony in observance of the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Month, on August 3, 2026, at the NSFA Grandstand, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City.

The activity served as a venue to reinforce awareness and appreciation of the fundamental principles of International Humanitarian Law among AFP personnel, highlighting the AFP’s continuing commitment to ensuring that all operations are conducted in accordance with established legal and humanitarian norms.

Through this observance, NFEM manifests its unwavering support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines' advocacy to promote respect for International Humanitarian Law while fostering professionalism, discipline, accountability, and adherence to the highest standards of military service.

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready

03/08/2026

READ | The Philippine Navy's Leadership Quote for the Week.
“There are three important factors to lead and accomplish a mission: man, machine, and meteorology.”
RAdm Juario C Marayag PN
Commander, Sea Systems Command, Philippine Navy
PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready






⁩

READ | The Philippine Navy's Leadership Quote for the Week.

“There are three important factors to lead and accomplish a mission: man, machine, and meteorology.”

RAdm Juario C Marayag PN
Commander, Sea Systems Command, Philippine Navy

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready







⁩

29/07/2026

WATCH | A journey beyond the horizon—where hope thrives.

🌊🇵🇭 Discover the inspiring story of Pag-asa Island.

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready

28/07/2026

📢 WE'RE HIRING!

The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) is looking for a qualified Computer Maintenance Technologist I to join our Civilian Human Resource workforce.

If you have the skills, dedication, and commitment to serve, this is your opportunity to be part of an organization that upholds excellence, professionalism, and public service.

📌 Position: Computer Maintenance Technologist I
📌 Item No.: AFP-PNC-CTMT1-18-2013
📍 Assignment: Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, NSFA, Panacan, Davao City

🗓 Application Deadline: 10 August 2026

Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their application letter and complete documentary requirements to:

AC of S for Personnel, OC1
(Attn: Civilian Affairs Branch)
Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao
NSFA, Panacan, Davao City

📧 Email: [email protected]

For the complete qualifications and documentary requirements, please refer to the poster below.

Be part of our Civilian Human Resource. Serve with Honor. Make a Difference. ⚓🇵🇭

28/07/2026

NAVAL FORCES EASTERN MINDANAO RESCUES TEN DURING TWO MARITIME INCIDENTS IN DAVAO CITY

Panacan, Davao City | July 26, 2026 – Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) successfully rescued ten individuals during two separate maritime incidents in the waters off Panacan, Davao City, on Sunday evening, demonstrating its rapid response capability and commitment to maritime safety.

At approximately 7:30 p.m., NFEM responded to a distress call from the Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) regarding a man who had fallen overboard from his motor banca. Boat Attack Craft BA489 was immediately dispatched to the area.

Upon arrival, the rescue team located the victim, later identified as Mr. Mark Sabate of Purok 18-A, Panacan, floating unconscious in the water. NFEM rescue swimmers, assisted by Philippine Coast Guard personnel, successfully recovered him and brought him ashore at Naval Station Felix Apolinario, where Davao City 911 responders immediately transported him to Southern Philippines Medical Center for medical treatment.

While returning from the operation, BA489 encountered MB UCP, which had become stranded due to engine failure while carrying eight passengers and its boat captain en route to Vanishing Island. The naval team safely rescued all nine individuals, towed the vessel to Captain Feranil Pier at Naval Station Felix Apolinario, and ensured the passengers received medical assessment before being transported safely to their respective homes.

The successful operations highlight NFEM's readiness to respond to maritime emergencies and its continued commitment to protecting lives at sea through close coordination with the Davao City Government, CDRRMO, the Philippine Coast Guard, and other partner agencies.

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready

27/07/2026

LOOK | NFEM Holds Change of Office Ceremony for Deputy Commander

The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) held a Change of Office Ceremony for the Deputy Commander, NFEM, at the Consolidated Mess Hall, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City, on July 27, 2026.

The ceremony was presided over by the Commander, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, Commodore Ireneo D. Battung PN, and marked the turnover of responsibilities and authority from the outgoing Acting Deputy Commander, NFEM, Captain Rogelio F. Lachica Jr. PN (GSC), to the incoming Deputy Commander, NFEM, Captain Leo C. Dimoc PN (GSC).

During the ceremony, the outgoing Acting Deputy Commander was recognized for his exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the Command's operational readiness and mission accomplishment. The incoming Deputy Commander formally assumed the responsibilities of the office and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the Command's mandate of ensuring maritime security, territorial defense, and humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations throughout the Command's Area of Responsibility.

In his message, Commodore Battung formally welcomed Captain Dimoc as the newly installed Deputy Commander of Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao. He expressed confidence in Captain Dimoc's leadership, professionalism, and extensive experience, emphasizing that his appointment would further strengthen the Command's capability to accomplish its mission and uphold the highest standards of service in safeguarding the nation's maritime interests.

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready

27/07/2026

LOOK | NFEM Honors Dedicated Civilian Employee in Retirement Ceremony

The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) honored the dedicated service and invaluable contributions of one of its civilian personnel during a Retirement Ceremony held at the VIP Lounge, Headquarters NFEM, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City, on July 27, 2026.

The ceremony paid tribute to Mr. Nelson B. Canovas for his more than 24 years of dedicated public service, recognizing his unwavering commitment, professionalism, and significant contributions in support of the Philippine Navy's mission in Eastern Mindanao. Prior to his assignment at NFEM, Mr. Canovas also served with the Naval Forces Central and the Naval Cyber Warfare Force, where he likewise demonstrated exemplary dedication and competence.

As a symbol of the Command's appreciation, Mr. Canovas was presented with a Plaque of Recognition and a token of gratitude in honor of his faithful and dedicated service. In recognition of the vital role of family in every public servant's success, his spouse, Mrs. Elsa B. Canovas, was likewise presented with a Certificate of Appreciation for her unwavering support throughout his years of service.

NFEM extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Canovas for his years of loyal and selfless service to the Philippine Navy and wishes him continued good health, happiness, and fulfillment as he begins a well-deserved new chapter in retirement.

Happy Retirement, Mr. Canovas! Fair winds and following seas.

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready

27/07/2026

READ | The Philippine Navy's Leadership Quote for the Week.
“Experience and hard work are fundamental to being true leader; they aren't innate qualities, but develop over the years and decades of efforts.”
Commo Jeff Rene S Nadugo PN
Commander, Naval Combat Engineering Brigade
PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready






⁩

READ | The Philippine Navy's Leadership Quote for the Week.

“Experience and hard work are fundamental to being true leader; they aren't innate qualities, but develop over the years and decades of efforts.”

Commo Jeff Rene S Nadugo PN
Commander, Naval Combat Engineering Brigade

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready







⁩

19/07/2026

READ | The Philippine Navy's Leadership Quote for the Week.
“Step up and take the task of ensuring that the next generation of leaders are ready for the emerging and future challenges.”
VAdm Caesar Bernard N Valencia PN
Superintendent, Philippine Military Academy
PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready






⁩

READ | The Philippine Navy's Leadership Quote for the Week.

“Step up and take the task of ensuring that the next generation of leaders are ready for the emerging and future challenges.”

VAdm Caesar Bernard N Valencia PN
Superintendent, Philippine Military Academy

PN @128: Modern and Ready, Strong and Steady — Credible in Mission, Always Mission-Ready







⁩