TWO female Coast Guardians have received Gawad Pilipino Awards in celebration of National Women’s Month at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, yesterday, 22 March 2024.
CG Lieutenant Commander (LCDR) Meche Bacea-Velez of the Coast Guard Aviation Command (CGAvCom) and Joy Dianne Gumatay-Padua of the Coast Guard Public Affairs (CGPAS) were recognized for their invaluable contributions in the field of maritime law enforcement and public service.
During the awarding ceremony, Gawad Pilipino Awards President and CEO, Dr. Danilo Mangahas, acknowledged the empowered Filipinas in government, private sector, non-profit organizations, culture, and arts for utilizing their knowledge, skills, and expertise in serving fellow Filipinos and promoting equality for all.
CG LCDR Bacea-Velez is the first female Coast Guard Aviatrix as Pilot-in-Command of BN Islander and CESSNA Grand Caravan, while Gumatay-Padua serves as a strategic and crisis communications specialist, focusing on protecting the PCG’s positive public image and preserving people’s trust.
