Philippine Navy and the British Embassy Manila honored a young Filipino naval officer for her outstanding academic performance during officer training in the United Kingdom.
At Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila on May 14, Commodore Edwin Nera, representing the Flag Officer In Command of the Philippine Navy, together with United Kingdom Defence Attaché Captain Tony Stockbridge, presented the Francisco Jose de Caldas Medal and the Admiralty Prize to Ensign Kimberly Kate Lawingan.
The awards recognized Lawingan’s academic excellence during her Initial Officer Training at the Britannia Royal Naval College from September 2023 to August 2024.
The training program prepares Royal Navy and international officers through academic instruction, leadership development, maritime training, and operational exercises designed to strengthen discipline, professionalism, and command readiness.
“I am deeply humbled and honored to receive these awards,” Lawingan said.
“As I continue my service, I carry with me the lessons, values, and principles cultivated during the training. I accept these awards not merely as personal achievements but as reminders of the responsibility entrusted to serve our navy and our nation with excellence and dedication,” she added.
Stockbridge described the recognition as a significant achievement, noting that the competition involved cadets from across the entire naval college.
“This is such a significant achievement,” he said.
The ceremony also highlighted the growing defense and military education partnership between the Philippines and the United Kingdom, particularly in developing highly trained and mission-ready naval officers.