At 32, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Acting Secretary Kim Robert C. De Leon has been promoted to Auxiliary Rear Admiral of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary (PCGA), becoming the youngest to hold the rank in the organization’s history and the youngest sitting Budget Secretary in the Philippines.
The promotion was conferred during a ceremony led by Philippine Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan, where officials highlighted Sec. De Leon’s contributions to youth leadership and nation-building. In his remarks, the young DBM Chief assured Filipinos who rely on maritime safety that the government remains committed to strengthening protection at sea.
“Sa bawat Pilipinong umaasa sa kaligtasan ng ating mga karagatan, nais kong ipaabot ang isang simpleng pangako: Hindi kayo nag-iisa. Nandito kami, handa kami, at patuloy kaming maglilingkod,” Sec. Kim said.
He also emphasized the need to align maritime security with sustained institutional support, underscoring the PCGA’s role in nation-building. “The mission of the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary, more than a maritime mission, is a nation-building mission. Maritime security must be matched with real support. A stronger Philippine Coast Guard means a safer Philippines—a more prepared and more resilient Philippines,” he added.
PCG Commandant Admiral Gavan, meanwhile, praised Sec. De Leon’s leadership, saying his rise reflects the value of service and youth participation in governance. “Secretary De Leon, the Philippine Coast Guard is proud of what you have accomplished. But more than that, we are proud of what your journey represents. You remind us that patriotism has no age requirement, that leadership is earned through service, and that the next generation of Filipinos is more than capable of answering the call to serve our country,” the PCG Commandant said.
Other DBM officials were also recognized during the ceremony, with DBM OIC Undersecretary Ryan S. Lita and OIC Assistant Secretary Gerald R. Janda elevated to Auxiliary Commodore, while Ms. Crismel Dara G. Tengson-Oliveros was inducted as Auxiliary Lieutenant Commander. The ceremony was also attended by DBM Undersecretary and PCGA Rear Admiral Goddes Hope O. Libiran and other Coast Guard officials.